Noonu Natrally > Roadmaps > plans > Driving Micro Enterprises (LDP-4)

Inter-Island Cargo Ferry and Delivery System

This initiative aims to revolutionize inter-island commerce by establishing a new cargo ferry and delivery system. A comprehensive assessment of island needs and resident feedback will guide the development of this system. Collaboration with the central government to secure necessary resources, collaboration, and permits will be sought. The new system will integrate seamlessly with existing municipal and public works service delivery, ensuring efficient logistics. Building strong partnerships with the private sector, including local shippers and retailers, will be paramount. By optimizing ferry schedules and potentially introducing a mobile service for smaller deliveries, the atoll aims to streamline cargo movement. A dedicated retailer delivery system will ensure essential goods reach businesses efficiently. Upgrading infrastructure and implementing new technologies like online tracking systems will further enhance efficiency and transparency. Financial sustainability will be ensured through user fees, public-private partnerships, or potential government subsidies. Community engagement and clear communication will be central to ensuring everyone understands the benefits of this new system. The ultimate goal is to expand and replicate this successful model across the Maldives, potentially advocating for policy changes to support improved inter-island connectivity. By implementing this innovative strategy, the atoll aims to create a more efficient, reliable, and inclusive cargo and delivery system for all island communities.
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Chronology

Leading Team

The Public Works Team is a combined unit encompassing the Council Secretariat and the company. This team is responsible for the overall development, and maintenance of infrastructure. Duties include project conceptualization, design, implementation, and management, ensuring the efficient and sustainable development of public facilities and services for the community.

Public Works Team

8. Decent Work and Economic Growth

1.6 Atoll Economic Development

1

Island Needs Assessment

To understand specific cargo, waste disposal, infrastructure maintenance, and disaster response needs, surveys and workshops with islanders, retailers, and businesses will be conducted. Preferred delivery frequencies, timeframes, and service options for retailers and individuals will be identified.
2

Central Government Collaboration

To collaborate with the central government agency responsible for the ferry service, discussions will be initiated. The atoll will advocate for increased flexibility and decision-making autonomy regarding ferry schedules, routes, and cargo handling. A formal agreement outlining roles, responsibilities, and funding mechanisms for collaborative enhancement will be secured.
3

Municipal and Public Works Integration

To assess the feasibility of integrating waste collection, construction materials delivery, island maintenance services, and disaster response logistics with the ferry schedule, a comprehensive analysis will be conducted. Standardized procedures and communication protocols for seamless service coordination between ferry operators, service providers, and island communities will be developed.
4

Private Sector Partnerships

To enhance the cargo ferry and delivery system, partnerships with local logistics companies will be formed to offer specialized services like cold chain transportation, door-to-door delivery, and island-wide distribution networks. Collaborating with retailers to establish centralized procurement and warehousing facilities strategically located near ferry landing points will also be explored.
5

Infrastructure Upgrades and Technology

To improve efficiency and security, designated cargo bays on ferries will be invested in for efficient loading/unloading and secure storage of goods. Containerized transport systems for specific cargo types and island-based storage facilities will be considered. Digital solutions for ferry booking, cargo tracking, payment processing, and service scheduling will be utilized.
6

Ferry Schedule Optimization

To optimize the ferry service, routes and frequencies will be adjusted based on cargo volume, island needs, and integrated service schedules. Specific cargo days or time slots will be designated to expedite goods movement and minimize travel time.
7

Financial Sustainability

To ensure financial sustainability, collaboration with retailers and businesses on a user-fee system or profit-sharing models for ferry cargo and delivery services will be sought. Funding opportunities through grants, public-private partnerships, and responsible tourism initiatives will be explored to support infrastructure upgrades and service expansion.
8

Mobile Service Coordination

To ensure efficient service coordination, coordinated timelines for mobile waste collection, construction material delivery, and maintenance teams will be established to coincide with ferry arrivals on each island. Digital platforms or dedicated communication channels will be utilized to track island requests, service schedules, and real-time updates.
9

Community Engagement and Communication

To ensure transparency and responsiveness, regular communication channels with islanders, retailers, and service providers will be established through meetings, community forums, and online platforms. Feedback will be gathered and services will be adapted based on user experience and evolving needs.
10

Expansion and Replication

To ensure wider impact, the successful ferry and delivery system will be expanded to other islands within the Atoll. Best practices and lessons learned will be shared with other Atoll councils to encourage replication and nationwide improvement of inter-island service systems.
11

Advocacy for Policy Change

To ensure the atoll has the necessary autonomy and resources to manage and enhance its public cargo ferry services and integrated delivery solutions, advocacy for national policies will be undertaken. The goal is to promote autonomy in scheduling, route planning, and integration with local needs.

Points of Discussion

34.1 Presenting and discussing Noonu Atoll Development Plan with President of Maldives

Proposal
The meeting is a crucial milestone for the atoll, offering a platform to highlight its development plans and garner support from the highest governmental authority. During the event, a comprehensive overview of the following development policies and key strategies will be presented: strengthening local governance, preserving natural resources, fostering a circular economy, empowering micro-enterprises, and building resilient communities.
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This task is in the Council Decision list - General plan.
Decision
After reviewing the presentation and discussing the key points, council will initiate direct communication with the appropriate line ministries to work together and move forward on these matters.
Introduced by

Mohamed Basheer

President of Noonu Atoll Council | 2021-Now

In Favour
9
Opposed
0
More details

Progress

Stay informed about our efforts on Inter-Island Cargo Ferry and Delivery System through these progress reports. These updates provide detailed information on the actions and engagements related to developing and implementing development plans, projects and programs.

View All Progress

2024

Engagements

28 Feb 2024

34th Noonu Atoll Council Sitting