Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been contracted to build an airport in Raa Fainu despite environmental concerns.

According to a post on X, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed the project agreement with MTCC on Sunday (February 23).

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project was done during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen. It showed that 5,792 trees need to be cut down to build the airport on the island.

However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said the EIA was incomplete and the number of trees to be cut down is likely to increase.

A satellite image of Fainu island. -- Photo: Google Earth

According to the EIA report, about 20 banyan trees which are 20 metres tall and a 29 metre tall Alexander Laurel wood tree would need to be cut down.

The "Save Fainu" campaign was launched against the airport project and the former government decided not to build the airport in Fainu.

In June 2023, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced to build the airport for the southern region of Raa atoll on Beriyanfaru.

However, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu pledged to build the airport on Fainu during the presidential election campaign in 2023.

In his tour of Raa atoll in January, Muizzu reiterated the promise. He said the airport will create jobs and attract more resorts to the region.