Seaplane services in Noonu atoll Velidhoo will begin in January next year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced last night.

Speaking during a visit to Velidhoo as part of his ongoing tour of the atoll, President Muizzu said that the construction of an airport at the nearby Vihafaru sandbank would be fast-tracked to enable seaplane services.

A dedicated seaplane platform will be built in Velidhoo with services expected to commence in January, he said. A sea ambulance service, also based in Velidhoo, is scheduled to launch in the same month.

The national airline, Maldivian, already operates seaplane services to Baa atoll Fulhadhoo, Fehendhoo, and Goidhoo.

With over 2,000 residents, Velidhoo is the most populous island in Noonu atoll. The President noted that a number of development projects are planned for the island.

President Muizzu inaugurated the construction of a new hospital and a community-based rehabilitation centre in Velidhoo. He also inaugurated the site to be reclaimed for boat-related works and laid the foundation stone for the island’s new police station.

During his visit, President Muizzu received a petition signed by 600 Velidhoo residents outlining challenges related to the island’s harbor area.

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In response, President Muizzu said the relevant ministry would conduct a technical assessment and undertake harbor development based on residents’ requests. If this year’s budget cannot accommodate the project, it will be included in next year’s budget, he said.

President Muizzu also pledged that a housing scheme and a project to expand classroom space and facilities at the islands school would be launched next year.

He added that an agreement will be signed in September to begin construction of a football stadium and a multi-sport court on the island.