NBAM raises concern over relocation orders for Hulhumalé vessels

The National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) has expressed concern over repeated orders by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) to vacate the jetty area in Hulhumalé without designating an alternative location for liveaboard vessels to anchor.

HDC issued its most recent notice last month, asking vessels to leave the area. NBAM noted that similar announcements were made several times last year in connection with the dredging of Phase III of Hulhumalé’s development project.

Speaking to Atoll Times, an NBAM official said that HDC is applying pressure on safari operators to vacate the area without officially announcing relocation plans or providing suitable alternatives.

“They are asking vessels to leave the area, but no other safe location has been offered,” the official said. “There is fear being created that vessels will be forced to leave.”

According to NBAM, safari vessels have used the Hulhumalé jetty area since it was first dredged during the tenure of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. While the association acknowledged that it does not claim ownership of the area, it stated that the sudden eviction should be approached with support and planning.

NBAM stated that the alternative locations proposed so far are unsuitable for mooring safari vessels, especially during rough seas.

“For instance, there are vessels anchored outside Kurumba Maldives, even during rough conditions. These locations present operational risks,” the official added.

In a formal statement, NBAM said that relocating vessels during the south-west monsoon poses risks to the vessels and their crews. The association also warned that such disruptions could affect scheduled operations and the livelihoods of those working on board.

NBAM said it supports national development projects, but such efforts should be coordinated with relevant stakeholders and planned in advance.

“The NBAM politely requests HDC and other relevant government authorities to postpone the relocation of safari vessels until a secure and functional harbour is made available,” the statement said.

NBAM has long raised concerns over the absence of a dedicated facility for safari vessels. During the previous administration, the association met with former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to discuss the issue.

At the time, President Solih had announced plans to develop a designated safari port in the area adjacent to K. Dhiyaneru lagoon. Subsequently, the government initiated the dredging of Hulhumale Phase III to allocate land for residents of Malé and to accommodate safari vessels in K. Kudagiri area.