Haa Alifu Atoll

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.

Banking Convenience Boosted in Dhidhdhoo with MIB Expansion

Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) opened a new service centre in Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo, its second in the atoll after Kulhudhuffushi. The ceremony included CEO Mufaddal Idris Khumri, Dhidhdhoo Council President Abdulla Rasheed, and Vice President Abdulla Waheed. The centre offers full services with 24-hour ATM deposit and withdrawal, expanding MIB's presence across northern Maldives.

Bunkering Will Not be Profitable for the Maldives: Ex-President Yameen

Former President Abdulla Yameen said at a People's National Front (PNF) rally that the bunkering service launched at Haa Alifu (HA.) Atoll will not be profitable for the Maldives. Ahmed Fayaz Ali Riza, a senior PNF member and former MNDF commander, criticized the venture as 'theft and fraud.' Riza compared Vitol's sales (12.7 million metric tonnes annually) to top bunkering company Bunkering Holding (25 million tonnes, $200M in 2023), questioning how the Maldives could expect $400M annually. Yameen added that Vitol will sell its own fuel and take 90-95% of profits, leaving 5% for the Maldives, which after expenses yields little, and after seven years the vessel becomes scrap.

Six Parties Competing for Uligan Marina Project: MPL

CEO Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) confirmed that six foreign companies have expressed interest in the Uligan Marina Project on Uligan Island, Haa Alifu Atoll. The project includes a yacht marina, cruise terminal, vessel docking facility, port facility, city hotel, and café. It aims to service cargo ships, safari boats, and yachts, creating jobs and diversifying the economy. The project is part of President Muizzu's economic policies to reduce reliance on tourism.

Bunkering Services Launched After Multiple Delays

The Maldives launched its long-delayed bunkering service on Thursday, aiming to expand the economy by US$400 million annually. Minister of Economic Development Mohamed Saeed inaugurated the service at Hoarafushi Island, Haa Alifu Atoll, with the refuelling of STO subsidiary's vessel YC Barrier. The service uses two tankers under bareboat charter and will provide crew change, spare parts, and drinking water. Vitol will supply fuel and promote the Maldives as a bunkering hub. The channel sees over 300 vessel crossings monthly. Delays occurred due to weather and tanker arrival issues.

Bunkering Services Delayed Again; Now Eying September Launch

The launch of bunkering services at Haa Alifu Atoll, initially scheduled for 22 August, has been postponed to September, marking the fourth delay. Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed had committed to the 22 August date during the Maldives-Szechuan Trade and Investment Cooperation Conference on 6 August. Delays are due to the lack of two key vessels. Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) CEO Mohamed Wajeeh stated the vessels would arrive on 22 August, but later an STO official confirmed the first vessel would arrive on 27 August and the second on 11 September. State Trading Organization (STO) will run the services, with MPL handling groundwork at Uligan Island. Vitol will provide bunkers and tugs. The government expects US$400 million annual revenue from next year.

MPL Opens EOI Window for Uligan Marina Project

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) announced an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the Uligan Marina Project on Uligan Island, Haa Alifu Atoll. The project includes six phases: a yacht marina, cruise terminal, docking facility, port facility, city hotel, and café/restaurant. Developers must submit EOI by 12 August at 4pm. MPL stated the project will create jobs and boost the northern region's economy, aiming to attract foreign cargo ships, safaris, and yachts. Land has been allocated to MPL. President Mohamed Muizzu pledged the project as part of his economic policy to reduce dependence on tourism.

Bunkering Services at Ihavandhippolhu to Launch in August

Bunkering services at Ihavandhippolhu in Haa Alifu Atoll will launch within a month, confirmed Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed. The State Trading Organization (STO) signed an agreement with Vitol Group on March 13 to establish an international bunkering facility. STO has purchased two tankers and is working with MNDF, Immigration, and Customs. Environmental surveys and equipment assessments done. 40 jobs announced. Saeed said the project will add US$400 million (MVR 6 billion) to GDP by end of July next year, revive small businesses, and create many jobs. President also announced a permanent international fuel storage terminal within the Maldives Economic Gateway.

Severe Weather Alerts Issued in Northern and Central Regions

The Maldives Meteorological Service issued severe weather alerts for northern and central atolls, including Haa Alifu, Thaa, and Baa atolls. Wind speeds of 22-27 mph with gusts up to 50 mph, heavy rains, thunderstorms, and rough seas are expected over 48 hours. Southern atolls may also be affected. Seafarers are advised to check conditions before sailing.

Met Office Forecasts Severe Weather for Northern and Central Regions

The Maldives Meteorological Service warned of heavy rains and strong winds in northern and central regions from Haa Alifu to Meemu Atoll. Gusts of 25-30 mph, possibly up to 50 mph during showers, and rough seas. Gaafaru Island recorded 67.7mm rain, Goidhoo 61.2mm, and Dharavandhoo 20.5mm in the past 24 hours. Authorities advised caution during Eid al-Adha holiday travel.

Ihavandhippolhu Bunkering Project Primed to Begin in Three Weeks: Economic Minister

The Ihavandhippolhu bunkering project in Haa Alifu Atoll will start within two to three weeks, before end of July, as per Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed. Qatar's UrbaCon Trading and Contracting has been awarded the contract. The project aims to provide revenue from servicing foreign vessels. Dredging for the Maldives Economic Gateway project will also start this year.

Tragic Series of Marine Accidents Claims Lives Week Apart

Two fatal marine accidents occurred within a week in the Maldives. A 45-year-old man spearfishing off Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, was struck by a speedboat late Thursday night and died upon arrival at the island hospital. Ibrahim Sharfaaz of the Gemanafushi Council confirmed the incident. Earlier, Abdul Rasheed Mohamed, 68, from Ihavandhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, died after a speedboat collided with his dhoani near Huvahandhoo. Three individuals were taken to Ihavandhooo Health Centre. The Maldives Police Service is investigating both incidents, highlighting the need for enhanced maritime safety.

One Dead, Two Injured in Boat Collision Near Ihavandhoo Island

A collision between a speedboat and a small fishing vessel near Ihavandhoo Island in Haa Alifu Atoll resulted in one death and two injuries. The incident occurred early Saturday night between Ihavandhoo and the uninhabited Huvahandhoo. The deceased, 68-year-old Abdul Rasheed Mohamed from Ihavandhoo, suffered serious head trauma and died at the health centre. The speedboat had four occupants, with two of the injured being its passengers. The Maldives Police Service reported the incident. The deceased was fishing with his son at the time of collision.

HRS Infratech Shirks MVR 100 Million Fine Over Dhihdhoo Reef Damage, Faces Possible Legal Action