Ice Shortage at Northern Ice Plants Sparks Concern

The Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) has expressed concern over the unavailability of ice from the northern regions of the Maldives.

In a message shared on X regarding the ice shortage, the union stated that a large number of yellowfin tuna vessels are operating in the northern regions of the Maldives. However, it noted that there is no way for these vessels to obtain ice.

The union stated that it has been many days since ice was available from the ice plant established in HA. Hoarafushi. It also added that there is no hope of getting ice from the ice plant established in HA. Ihavandhoo. While the Hoarafushi ice plant has been unable to provide ice for two months, the Ihavandhoo ice plant is issuing ice on a limited basis. Therefore, the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union stated that vessels are facing difficulties in obtaining ice.

Due to the unavailability of ice from HA atoll, fishermen now have to burn fuel to travel to Sh. Keekimini or N. Lhohi, which the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union stated is very costly and causes significant losses for the fishermen.

The Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union also expressed concern that MIFCO has not started purchasing yellowfin tuna despite stating they would do so. The union noted that the government had previously promised to set the price of yellowfin tuna at 80 Rufiyaa, and 100 Rufiyaa for A-grade catch. Furthermore, they questioned what has been done to fulfill the promises made to yellowfin tuna fishermen.