Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) is set to provide 14 maritime services as part of the launch of its new bunkering operations in Ihavandhippolhu, according to MPL’s CEO Mohamed Wajeeh.

Speaking ahead of the official commencement on Thursday, Wajeeh detailed the range of services that will accompany the refueling operations in partnership with the State Trading Organization (STO).

While STO will be responsible for providing refueling services to vessels, MPL will handle a comprehensive range of maritime services included in the bunkering package.

Wajeeh outlined some of the 14 services that will be available, including:

- Pilotage services  

- Crew change  

- Ship-to-ship transfers  

- Provision of clean drinking water  

- Supply of food  

- Motor oil changes  

- Docking services for yachts  

- Vessel maintenance  

- Underwater services  

- Tug services  

- Accident response assistance  

- Waste management for vessels  

Wajeeh also revealed that two vessels, ‘Marine Angel’ and ‘Marine Bella’, are already stationed in Ihavandhippolhu to facilitate the services.

Additionally, a 24-hour call center has been established to support customers during the operation.

The CEO further explained that an oil terminal and storage tanks will be constructed at Ihavandhippolhu under the second phase of the project.

The project, originally slated to begin in July, was rescheduled after an agreement between STO and MPL was signed on March 13th.

Economic Development Minister Mohamed Saeed previously remarked that the bunkering service is expected to give a significant boost to the Maldives’ economy, projecting a potential increase in GDP of USD 400 million in its first year if even a small percentage of the 300-450 international vessels passing through the northern channel avail of the service.