An effective transportation system is one of the most imperative things linked to national development, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Delivering his presidential address on Monday morning at the inaugural sitting of the People’s Majlis, Solih revealed that the government highly prioritizes establishing a fast and reliable transport system via sea and air.

Highlighting that the airports being developed in Hoarafushi island in Haa Alif atoll, Muli island in Meemu atoll and Faresmaathodhaa island in Gaaf Dhaal atoll is almost near completion, the president added that more airport development projects will commence throughout the next four years, in six islands across the country.

As such, under phase one of the project to link the outlying atolls with a reliable transportation system, the government is under preparations to provide ferry services to Haa Alif, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani atolls.

The project is set to begin within the ongoing year, said the president.

Further, Solih highlighted that the government has begun a survey and design for the project linking capital city Malé, Villimalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.

Construction of the bridge is also set to commence within this year, said Solih.