Boat Owners Stranded in Hulhumalé Lagoon as Ramadan Approaches

Boat owners transporting goods to the Maldives' outlying islands have reported being stranded for up to seven days at Hulhumalé quay due to inadequate docking facilities. The designated docking area is entirely enclosed by corrugated iron sheets, leaving only a small makeshift opening for cargo loading and unloading, making operations nearly impossible. Crews are facing shortages of water and food supplies, while islands are experiencing delays in receiving essential goods, particularly ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan. The situation has been exacerbated by construction work on Boduthakurufaanu Magu in Malé City, which has led to the closure of a significant portion of the Malé lagoon. Boat owners have expressed frustration over the lack of proper arrangements, describing the area as impractical for operations and likening the situation to a 'prison.' With Ramadan fast approaching, businesses are already preparing to transport goods to the islands, but the delays are creating additional burdens.