Faafu Atoll - RajjeViyu

PSM News | 21 hours, 19 minutes ago | neutral

President Muizzu mourns passing of Nilandhoo’s Ahmed Moosa

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu mourned the passing of Ahmed Moosa, a former island chief of Nilandhoo, who died at age 100. In a social media post, the President praised Moosa's service, trustworthiness, and character, noting his pride in having educated descendants serving the nation. Moosa received the National Public Service Award in agriculture in 1992.

The Standard | 10 months, 3 weeks ago | urgent

Severe Weather Alert: Yellow and White Warnings Issued Nationwide

The Maldives Meteorological Service issued white and yellow weather alerts across multiple atolls as the southwest monsoon strengthens. White alerts were active from 07:00 to 11:00 for Laamu Atoll through Addu City, extended to 17:00 for Dhaalu Atoll through Addu City. A yellow alert from 09:30 to 13:30 covers Haa Alifu to Faafu Atolls. Warnings include heavy rain, gusts up to 50 mph, and rough seas. The monsoon is expected to intensify over the next three days, with safety measures advised.

Maldives Republic | 1 year, 10 months ago | positive

Government Reverses Controversial Decision to Suspend Magoodhoo Island Airport Project

The Magoodhoo Island Airport project in Faafu Atoll, suspended by the Muizzu administration before the April 2024 parliamentary elections, has resumed. Council President Abdulla Waheed confirmed that asphalt laying is now underway. The project, originally initiated under former President Solih, was contracted to MTCC with a budget of MVR 231 million and a deadline of April 2024. Suspension followed a decision to establish a new airport on nearby Nilandhoo Island, where President Muizzu's sister Fathimath Sauda won a seat. The suspension sparked protests, but work has now restarted.

Maldives Republic | 2 years ago | neutral

Government Defends Decision to Develop New Airport on Nilandhoo Island

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Abdulla Muththalib defended the government's decision to build a new airport on Nilandhoo Island, Faafu Atoll, despite an existing airport on nearby Magoodhoo Island which is 75% complete. The minister stated there are no economic disadvantages and that investors have shown interest, including acquiring two sectors of the lagoon for tourism. Nilandhoo can accommodate a 2,500-meter runway to serve resorts in Dhaalu Atoll. The Maldives National Defence Force may use the Magoodhoo airport for military drones. The government will decide on the optimal use of the Magoodhoo airport once Nilandhoo airport is developed for international operations.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 2 months ago | concerned

Parliamentary Motion Challenges Alleged Suspension of Magoodhoo Airport Project

MP Ahmed Haleem submitted a motion accusing President Muizzu of suspending the Magoodhoo airport project for political advantage, as residents protested. The government simultaneously announced a new airport on Nilandhoo Island, where the president's sister is a candidate. The MDP-sponsored motion was accepted for debate (22-4). Haleem claimed US$22 million had been secured for the Magoodhoo project, launched in October 2022 by the Solih administration. Ruling party MP Ahmed Muhsin Hameed defended the Nilandhoo airport, citing its benefits. Former President Solih also accused Muizzu of misusing state resources. Residents vowed to continue protests.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 2 months ago | tense

Magoodhoo Airport Project Suspension Sparks Protests; President Muizzu Accused of Election Manipulation

Residents of Magoodhoo Island, Faafu Atoll, protest alleged suspension of the Magoodhoo Airport project, accusing President Muizzu of election manipulation for upcoming parliamentary elections on 21 April. Council President Abdulla Waheed claims the project was suspended to prioritize Nilandhoo airport, where Muizzu's sister is contesting. Former President Solih and MDP echo allegations. Minister Muththalib and MTCC deny suspension; Muizzu says no directive given. The project, launched in October 2022, is near completion.

Maldives Republic | 2 years, 5 months ago | optimistic

Government Initiates Preliminary Surveys for Nilandhoo Airport Project

The Maldivian government has commissioned the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) to conduct surveys and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a proposed airport on Nilandhoo Island, Faafu Atoll. The project includes land reclamation and coastal protection. Physical works are expected to begin before the end of the year, according to Infrastructure Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib. The project is under the ministry's mandate and included in the infrastructure budget. The concept was initially proposed under former President Abdul Yameen Abdul Gayoom. Meanwhile, the Magoodhoo Airport project, located 8 km away, is near completion and expected to be operational in January. The Magoodhoo airport, costing MVR 230 million, will have an 1,800-metre runway and will be operated by Regional Airports Company Ltd.