MDP: Structural issues with port quay walls preventing cranes from accessing arriving vessels
29 ޖުލައި 2026 | ބުދަ 14:02Captain Ali Rasheed has called for the strengthening of operational activities at Maldivian ports, highlighting that the deteriorating condition of quay walls poses significant challenges to cargo discharging. He emphasized the need for robust strategies and faster cargo clearance speeds to effectively alleviate port congestion.
Captain Ali Rasheed speaks at a press conference hosted by the MDP Transport and Tourism Committee. | Raajje MV
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has highlighted significant challenges in unloading cargo at the nation's ports, noting that the poor condition of quay walls often prevents cranes from accessing arriving vessels.
During a press conference held Wednesday by the MDP Transport and Tourism Committee, Captain Ali Rashid highlighted the significant challenges currently facing the Maldives' logistics sector.
Ali Rasheed stated that the current condition of the harbor's quay walls prevents cranes from accessing the area to service arriving vessels, describing the situation as a significant and pressing challenge.
He stated that this situation necessitates the use of onboard cranes for unloading cargo, adding that it is currently impossible for vessels without their own crane systems to operate in the Maldives.
Currently at Thilafushi, they are forced to dock a barge, position another alongside it, and then use a crane ship to offload the cargo. In this challenging situation in the Maldives, the most effective solution would be to use cranes to lower the containers directly onto barges from the ships and then transport them to the ports.Ali Rasheed
Furthermore, he highlighted that the requirement to transport all goods to either the Male’ Commercial Harbor or Hulhumale’ poses a significant burden. He specifically noted that heavy traffic during nighttime hours creates substantial difficulties for barges attempting to dock in Hulhumale’.
Ali Rasheed stated that the solution to these issues lies in focusing on operational efficiency and implementing strategies to expedite cargo clearance.
Speaking on the port relocation project, Ali Rasheed stated that although the previous administration had decided to develop the port at Gulhifalhu, the current government has relocated the project to Thilafushi. He further noted that a situation has been created to pressure the government into building a new port, citing claims of port congestion.
Ali Rasheed stated that the government, business owners, and the general public must work together to overcome the current logistical challenges in cargo transportation. He further noted that the issue could potentially be resolved by increasing operational speed.
