BKMU: Fuel shortage halts operations at majority of ice plants, cutting off ice supply

Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) has raised serious concerns over difficulties in obtaining ice from MIFCO-operated ice plants, particularly amid a period of declining fish and bait stocks.

In a statement, the Union, citing MIFCO has restricted the daily sale of ice to two tons per vessel, creating significant challenges for fishermen preparing to venture fishing, emphasized that a two-ton allocation is insufficient for a full day operations of yellowfin tuna fisheries.

The Union also reported that several ice plants across the country have halted operations due to a shortage of fuel required to keep them running.

"The inability of yellowfin tuna fishermen to access this essential service, caused by fuel shortages preventing the operation of numerous plants and other related issues, is a huge concern for this union," the BKMU stated.

The BKMU also reminded the government that ensuring uninterrupted access to ice throughout the Maldives was included as a presidential campaign pledge, and as such, called on authorities to fulfill the commitment without further delay. It added that such challenges during a period of low catch are having a direct impact on fishermen’s livelihoods and incomes.

Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, who serves as the President of the Tourism Employees Association of Maldives (TEAM), has also expressed concern over the issue, emphasizing that difficulties in obtaining ice from MIFCO facilities present a significant challenge for yellowfin tuna fishermen.

As fisheries catches have declined, payments made by MIFCO to fishermen have also fallen in recent months. While MVR 78 million was disbursed in April, this figure dropped to MVR 31.1 million in May and further declined to MVR 11.3 million in June.