Kaimoo Reaffirms Commitment to Addu Amid Gan Airport Development Dispute
The 1999 lease, renewed in 2017, overlaps with the planned road for the Gan Airport development. | Photo credit: Gan International Airport
Kaimoo Travels and Hotel Services Pvt. Ltd. has reaffirmed its commitment to Addu’s development, highlighting its longstanding presence in the region through the operation of Equator Village Maldives.
In a statement, the company noted that it has been managing the resort for over two decades under a valid lease agreement with the Ministry of Tourism. Initially signed in 1999 and renewed in 2017, the lease covers the full compound of Equator Village, parts of which now overlap with the planned route of a new road connected to the Gan Airport development project.
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This statement comes after concerns were raised by the Addu City Council and Addu Airports Company regarding Equator Village’s failure to vacate a building situated within the boundaries of the airport expansion area. Authorities have made multiple requests for the resort to clear the premises, but the matter remains unresolved, reportedly hindering progress on the airport development.
Construction Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib, who is overseeing the airport project, confirmed that the area in question forms part of the Addu Airport and has been allocated for road construction essential to the project. He stated that Equator Village has refused to vacate the premises despite ongoing construction work over the past two years, causing delays for the contractor responsible for the expansion.
Kaimoo stated that the overlapping section of its leased property contains critical infrastructure necessary for the daily operations of the resort. These include the kitchen, staff accommodation, staff mess, resort laundry, garage, staff recreation area, and a guest’s squash court.
The company added that it has maintained regular engagement with the Ministry of Tourism and has proactively proposed solutions to facilitate both the resort’s operations and the city’s broader development goals.
“We remain committed to working closely with the Ministry of Tourism to reach a fair and timely resolution,” the company said, expressing confidence that a collaborative approach will lead to an outcome that benefits all parties.
Kaimoo concluded by reiterating its strong support for the development of Addu and its continued contribution to the broader progress of the Maldives.
