Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has said that the first ship carrying perishable goods from India will dock in Addu city today.
MPL and Hithadhoo Regional Port worked together with Indian shipping companies to arrange regular transportation of perishable goods for the people of Addu.
MPL CEO Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim told Adhadhu that the first ship will carry fruits, vegetables, onions, garlic and eggs. It will dock at Hithadhoo port at 8:00 pm.
He said that Indian shipping companies have assured to send a ship carrying perishable goods to Addu every 15 days. But he added that the service can be maintained based on the demand from businesses in Addu.
"A ship needs to have a certain amount of cargo on board to go to Addu. This will bring big conveniences to the people of Addu. Instead of shipping goods to Male', shipping directly to Addu will bring down costs. Addu can now get fresh vegetable and fruits."
Wajeeh said discussions will be held with Addu businessmen to facilitate permanent shipping of goods to Addu. He added that the service was facilitated by strengthening security at the Hithadhoo port as requested by Indian shipping companies.
He stated that Addu port can be developed when international ships dock there on a regular basis and the aim is to increase economic activities in the region.
