President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the 18-month delay in the development of Thulhaadhoo Airport in Baa Atoll was due to the need to finalize financial arrangements.

The land reclamation work for the airport initially began under the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. However, following the change in government, the project was put on hold, prompting concerns over erosion in the already reclaimed areas.

As part of his tour of Baa Atoll, President Muizzu visited Thulhaadhoo on Tuesday, where he officially signed the agreement to resume work on the Thulhaadhoo Airport project. The development will include the construction of a runway, terminal building, and other key facilities.

Speaking at a meeting with residents of Thulhaadhoo, President Muizzu emphasized the significance of fulfilling key promises made during the recent presidential election concerning the island’s development. He described delivering on these commitments as one of his foremost responsibilities, assuring that the entire government is working with dedication and sincerity to honor them.

The president further highlighted that the implementation of various pledges begins at different times, as necessary preparations and arrangements are made. Among these, he identified the Thulhaadhoo Airport project as the most critical initiative for the island’s progress.

With the airport project reaching the agreement signing stage today, Muizzu acknowledged that the process took time due to the complexity of required financial arrangements. He pledged that, moving forward, the project will proceed without interruption, with accelerated efforts to ensure its full and timely completion.

President Muizzu stated that his administration has commenced work on the Thulhaadhoo Airport project based on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted and approved by the previous government in coordination with the Thulhaadhoo Council. While the project began following the existing EIA, the president indicated plans to make certain modifications.

Heavy machinery required for the land reclamation phase of the airport project was delivered to Thulhaadhoo two days prior to Muizzu’s visit to the island. However, according to an earlier statement from the Thulhaadhoo Council, no prior notification about the President’s arrival or the commencement of work had been communicated to the council.