Sea ambulance service launched in Velidhoo, strengthening emergency care across Noonu atoll

Sea ambulance services officially began in N. Velidhoo on Wednesday, expanding emergency medical transport options in Noonu atoll.

Before this launch, Manadhoo was the only island in the atoll with a sea ambulance. The Ministry of Defense said the new service in Velidhoo will significantly ease patient transfers and strengthen the atoll’s emergency response network.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Deputy Minister of Defense Fathimath Mizna Ali highlighted Velidhoo’s growing role as a hub for safari vessels and local tourism.

“This will be a strong backbone for the region’s economic activities. The island’s health security and emergency treatment system will increase the confidence of businessmen and investors, and bring great satisfaction to hundreds of workers in the safaris and tourism industry,” Mizna said.

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She added that the service will improve connectivity between rural hospitals across Noonu atoll and enhance access to timely medical care.

According to the Defense Ministry, sea ambulance services will be established in nine more islands this year, while services will resume in three islands.

The Health Ministry also handed over 56 land ambulances to islands across the country on the 17th of this month. Delivered in three batches, the ministry plans to provide new ambulances to 31 additional islands this year. In addition, 10 paramedic ambulances will be introduced to strengthen emergency medical services in Male' and other cities.

Meanwhile, national airline Maldivian launched seaplane flights to Velidhoo last Friday, further improving connectivity to the island.