‘AgriBoat’ introduced for transportation of agricultural produce
Maldives’ first ‘AgriBoat’ which will be utilized for transportation of agricultural produce has been launched.
Local Governance Minister Adam Shareef launched the boat during a special ceremony held on Tuesday night.
Speaking with Sun, the Minister said ‘AgriBoat’ will aid in transporting agricultural produce from one location to the other while preserving their freshness and serve as a great convenience to farmers.
He added that the initiative would significantly boost the agricultural sector while also aiding the development of other sectors that leverages agriculture in the provision of services.
Furthermore, the Minister underscored that the ‘AgriBoat’ was designed to meet the needs of the Maldivian environment and in a manner voyages can be undertaken inexpensively.
In this regard, the boat utilizes solar power which will reduce fuel consumption, costs, and carbon emissions. It is equipped with cold and dry storage units to minimize post-harvest losses.
The boat will be traveling between Laamu Atoll islands and Male’.
The ‘AgriBoat’ was developed under UNDP’s Project for Developing Sustainable Agricultural Economy (PDSAE) with grant assistance from the Japanese government. Maldives Police Service designed the boat with assistance from the Economic Ministry and Agriculture Ministry.