MTCC to Resolve Material Shortages and Accelerate Island Development Projects

The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) expects to overcome critical construction material shortages within the next four months, a move set to accelerate essential development projects across the archipelago. Managing Director Ahmed Saudee confirmed that resolving these supply chain hurdles will allow work on various island-based initiatives to progress at a significantly faster pace. A primary focus for MTCC remains land reclamation. The company is currently deploying six dredgers, including one large-scale vessel, to meet its obligations. However, an additional 16 million cubic metres of material are still required. To bridge this gap, MTCC is evaluating the lease of a hopper dredger, which under current market conditions would cost approximately USD 105 million for a 10-month period. Despite the high cost, Saudee stated that the company is actively developing plans to ensure these reclamation targets are met. Ongoing reclamation efforts are currently concentrated in Baa Thuladhoo and Laamu Maavah using cutter suction dredgers, while work continues in Gaafu Dhaalu Madaveli and Gaafu Dhaalu Faresmaathoda. Meanwhile, the company's largest dredger is dedicated to the Girifushi project. Beyond reclamation, MTCC is navigating challenges in airport development. Saudee noted that several projects have faced delays due to scope changes initiated after work had already begun. Specifically, the increasing size of aircraft operated by the national carrier, Maldivian, has necessitated the enlargement of runways beyond their original specifications. This has led to significant revisions, with the Alifushi Airport development now being restructured as a new project to accommodate these updated requirements. Additionally, MTCC is managing a nationwide portfolio of upgrades for hospitals and health centres. While many of these facilities are slated for completion by the end of next year, they have been subject to the same material procurement difficulties affecting other atoll projects. Saudee emphasized that the company has already identified the specific materials and workloads required to finalize these health infrastructure projects, with a clear timeline for resolving the remaining supply challenges.