MPL to Commence Water Bunkering Services

The Uthuru Maritime Service (UMS), established by Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) to provide maritime services in Ihavandhippolhu, is preparing to launch water bunkering services.

Accordingly, MPL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today with the Thuraakunu Council to station the water barge required for water bunkering in Thuraakunu, Haa Alifu Atoll.

During a ceremony held at the Thuraakunu Council office this afternoon, the MoU was signed on behalf of MPL by CEO Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim. Thuraakunu Council President Ali Abdul Latheef signed on behalf of the council.

Under this MoU, the water barge used by MPL to provide water bunkering services in the north will be stationed in Thuraakunu. MPL CEO Wajeeh stated that the water barge will be kept in Thuraakunu, and the refilling of the barge will also be carried out on the island. He added that he believes water bunkering is an additional market that will open up through UMS.

"Already, an operator of 14 Greek vessels has requested water. That work will begin without much delay. Experts in this field also say that this will open up a very large market. That is what is expected," CEO Wajeeh said.

Thuraakunu Council President Ali stated that water bunkering is an important part of the maritime services provided in the north. He also praised the current government's efforts to provide maritime services in the north.

"Even though this is a small component of the (maritime) services provided in the north, it is an important part. We will give our full support to the efforts being made by the government and MPL to provide these (maritime) services in the north," Ali said.

MPL CEO Wajeeh and the management team also met with the Molhadhoo Council in Haa Alifu Atoll today. During this meeting, discussions were held regarding maritime services that could be carried out in Molhadhoo as part of the maritime services provided in the north.