Maldives Government Faces Criticism as Construction of 61 Police Stations Remains Delayed

The construction of 61 police stations in the Maldives, which was assigned to Indian company ABL Indira Projects and Developments two years ago, is yet to begin. This delay has caused concern among parliament members, and Ihavandhoo MP Mohamed Shifau questioned Home Minister Imran Abdulla about the issue during a parliament session.

According to the Minister, advance payments have been sent to the Ministry of Finance for the construction of the police stations in the atolls. However, the work has not started yet, and the contract for the work was signed on July 17, 2021.

The agreement for the project states that work on the police stations should begin within 15 days of payment of the advance payment. The Minister has assured that the work will start late by May 25, and all the stations will not start construction on a single day. However, he has also confirmed that work on all these police stations will start this year.

The project involves the construction of a total of 61 police facilities and buildings, including 23 police stations and 21 police posts in the atolls, eight atoll police stations, a police station in Male' city, and four accommodations to be built in Hulhumale' Phase 2. Additionally, the custodial facility being constructed in Dhoonidhoo and two buildings that are already in use will also be part of the project.

The delay in the project has raised concerns among the public, as the construction of police stations is crucial for the safety and security of the people in the Maldives.