MANILA, PHILIPPINES - ADB is helping to ensure enhanced access to markets and social services for the 70% of the Maldivian population living on outer atolls, where the comparative incidence of poverty is highest.
“Maritime transport in the Maldives is comparable to that of a road network in land-based nations,” said Lise Weidner, the project team leader with ADB’s South Asia Department. “A well-developed maritime transport infrastructure is critical to sustained social and economic development in the country.”
The Domestic Maritime Transport Project enhances the existing Malé North Harbor through the construction of a 290-meter long quay to ease congestion and increase the sustainability and efficiency of the harbor. The Project also includes substantial support for institutional development and capacity building in key sector agencies.
The Malé North Harbor is the most important inter-island transport hub in the Maldives. It is the lifeline to social and economic development opportunities in the capital for the outer atoll population.
Congestion in Malé North Harbor warrants capacity expansion and improved harbor management. The Project addresses these development needs and is a top priority under the country’s national development plan.
“This project will help reduce regional disparities within the country by lowering transport costs and boosting inter-island trade,” said Ms. Weidner.
Source: ADB
No comments:
Post a Comment