Bilehdhoo Football Ground Still Unfinished 750 Days After Deadline
28 ޖުލައި 2026 | އަންގާރަ 18:44The Bileffdoo Island Council has formally addressed a letter to the Minister of Sports expressing grave concern over the 750-day delay in completing the island's football stadium. The council highlighted that the prolonged failure to apply rubber infill after laying the turf has led to weed growth and the deterioration of the drainage system, prompting an urgent request for the government to resolve these issues and finalize the project.
The current status of the F. Bilehdhoo football field project: Following the installation of the turf, a significant delay in applying the rubber infill has led to the pitch becoming overgrown with weeds and vegetation. | F. Bilehdhoo Council
The Bilehdhoo Island Council has brought the prolonged delay of the island's football stadium project to the attention of Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu, noting that the project remains incomplete 750 days past its original deadline.
In a formal letter addressed to Minister Rafiu, the Bilehdhoo Council noted that the contract for the supply and installation of turf at the Bilehdhoo football field was awarded to Maldives Assure Supplies. According to the council, work under the agreement with the Sports Ministry commenced on March 24, 2024. The council further highlighted that, per the terms of the agreement, the project was scheduled for completion within 82 days of its commencement.
Despite the passage of 82 days, and even after 750 days, the project remains incomplete. This has caused significant concern for the Council and the island's residents.
The letter stated that although the turf required for the pitch was delivered to the island upon the project being awarded to Assure Supplies, the tarpaulin used to protect the rolls had deteriorated. Consequently, the turf remained exposed to the elements until installation began on April 4, 2024.
The council stated that although the turf installation has been completed, only quarry dust has been applied to the surface. They noted that the rubber infill required for the turf has still not been laid to this day. Furthermore, the council highlighted that the pitch floods and turns muddy during rainy periods. They also pointed out that due to leveling discrepancies between the pitch and the drainage system in certain areas, water fails to drain properly from parts of the field.
The council expressed grave concern, noting that 103 days after the turf was laid, many of the drainage gutters have deteriorated beyond use. Furthermore, thick weeds and vegetation have overgrown the turf, rendering the facility unusable. The council also highlighted that no employees from Assure Supplies have been present in Bilehdhoo throughout this entire period.
Consequently, the council has formally requested Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu to address the ongoing delays in the football pitch project. Highlighting the difficulties faced by the community due to the unfinished work, the council urged the Minister to resolve the existing issues and ensure the project is completed to a high standard.
