News Desk
The Hawks Private Limited has dropped its diesel prices for registered fishing vessels to MVR 17 per liter across 21 distribution points nationwide, a move coming right on the heels of major bad press for the fuel giant.
The company announced that the lower rate applies strictly to registered fishing craft. Boat captains looking to get the MVR 17 rate will have to present valid registration documents at Hawks fuel sheds before pumping.
The sudden discount appears to be an attempt at damage control following a series of high-profile incidents. The firm faced public heat after its 10,000-ton tanker, MT Hawks Glory, suffered an engine failure and drifted at sea before being towed back to Malé Port. Days later, public frustration flared up again when police suspended the driving license of Hawks CEO Hassan Rifau after he crashed his luxury sports car into solar panel poles along the Sinamalé Bridge Highway.
The MVR 17 rate is now available at Hawks fuel stations across the country, including Hoarafushi, Dhidhdhoo, and Ihavandhoo in HA. Atoll; Feydhoo in Sh. Atoll; Velidhoo and Kendhikulhudhoo in N. Atoll; Hulhudhuffaaru in R. Atoll; Kamadhoo, Dharavandhoo, and Thulhaadhoo in B. Atoll; Thoddhoo in AA. Atoll; Muli in M. Atoll; Vilufushi in Th. Atoll; Isdhoo, Fonadhoo, and Hithadhoo in L. Atoll; Madaveli in GDh. Atoll; the Dhoondigan and Funaadu wards in Fuvahmulah; as well as Hulhumalé and Thilafushi in the Greater Malé region.
While the price cut gives fishermen some relief from high trip costs out at sea, critics view the nationwide discount as a straightforward PR push to rebuild the company’s standing.
