Works Near Completion on Modular Fuel Shed in N. Manadhoo to Provide STO Base-Rate Fuel

Physical works on the new modular fuel station in Noonu Atoll Manadhoo have entered their final stages, with operations expected to commence within the next 5 to 10 days. Once active, the facility will significantly ease accessibility and lower fuel costs for local residents, boat operators, and the island's fishing fleet.

The Manadhoo station is part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s nationwide initiative to eliminate the longstanding fuel price disparity between the Greater Malé region and the outer atolls. Overseen by the State Trading Organisation (STO) alongside its subsidiary, Fuel Supplies Maldives (FSM), the program ensures that petrol and diesel are sold at standard STO base rates on at least one designated island across every administrative atoll.

Key Highlights of the Rollout:

• Target Completion: Commissioning and retail operations in N. Manadhoo are slated to begin within 5 to 10 days.

• Pricing Equity: Eliminates regional markups, granting local consumers and fishermen direct access to diesel and petrol at official STO rates.

• Nationwide Footprint: Substantial progress has been made toward complete nationwide coverage, leaving only Thaa (Th.) and Laamu (L.) atolls pending the completion and commissioning of their dedicated base-rate sheds.

The deployment of modular fuel sheds offers a rapid, standardized solution to outer-island logistics, cutting high transport premiums previously absorbed by island communities and significantly lowering operational overhead for local fishing vessels.