President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has officially elevated Thinadhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, to the status of a city, marking a historic milestone for the island community. The announcement was made during a gathering on the island, where President Solih shared the news with the eager residents.
President Solih revealed that he had signed the resolution conferring city status upon Thinadhoo before his visit, underlining that the Local Government Authority (LGA) had confirmed the island’s fulfillment of the criteria outlined in the Decentralisation Act of Maldives.
In his address, President Solih conveyed his optimism about the transformative potential of this elevated status. He articulated his commitment to initiate a series of ambitious development initiatives, with a primary emphasis on healthcare infrastructure. A groundbreaking move in this direction includes the establishment of a cutting-edge tertiary hospital on the island. Additionally, the existing hospital will undergo repurposing, transforming into a higher education hub focused on healthcare studies.
Turning his attention to economic growth, President Solih unveiled an ambitious plan for a substantial industrial transformation. The imminent completion of a dedicated business port within the upcoming year will facilitate international trade operations, enhancing economic prospects. Notably, key institutions such as Maldives Customs Service, Maldives Immigration, and Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) services will be situated within the city, generating a multitude of employment avenues.
Further underscoring his dedication to the region’s fishing industry, President Solih disclosed plans to establish state-of-the-art cold storage and freezing facilities. These facilities, with a capacity of 1,000 tonnes and 120 tonnes respectively, will invigorate the fishing sector.
Thinadhoo’s transformation extends to reclamation efforts aimed at expanding the city’s footprint into a vibrant tourism zone. This expansion will encompass housing projects, including the construction of 500 flats, bringing contemporary living spaces to the community.
President Solih reiterated his commitment to the ongoing road construction project in Thinadhoo, pledging to modernise the entire road network within the city. The vision extends to the enhancement of recreational facilities, the creation of dedicated picnic areas, and the elevation of the island’s airport into an international gateway.
With these sweeping projects, President Solih highlighted that Thinadhoo’s essence will undergo a profound metamorphosis. The official designation of Thinadhoo as a city adds to the count of Maldivian cities, marking a significant stride toward progress and development.
