Former President Mohamed Nasheed has criticized the government for constructing multiple airports within close proximity, saying it reflects the absence of a coherent plan to develop an integrated national transportation system.
Nasheed made the remarks following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent visit to Shaviyani Atoll, during which agreements were signed to build two additional airports in the atoll. Once completed, three airports will be operating in the same region.
In a post on X, Nasheed noted that while four airports already exist in the north, four more are being developed within a 19 to 36-minute distance by speedboat. He warned that such projects would undermine the economic viability of the airports, increase operational costs for the national airline, and hinder local tourism.
Nasheed said the decision to build airports so close to one another demonstrates a lack of planning and vision, calling it a clear sign of the government’s irresponsibility in managing the country’s transport network.
Nasheed made the remarks following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent visit to Shaviyani Atoll, during which agreements were signed to build two additional airports in the atoll. Once completed, three airports will be operating in the same region.
In a post on X, Nasheed noted that while four airports already exist in the north, four more are being developed within a 19 to 36-minute distance by speedboat. He warned that such projects would undermine the economic viability of the airports, increase operational costs for the national airline, and hinder local tourism.
Nasheed said the decision to build airports so close to one another demonstrates a lack of planning and vision, calling it a clear sign of the government’s irresponsibility in managing the country’s transport network.
