President announces major utility project for reclaimed lands

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced on Monday a significant initiative to provide essential utility services to newly reclaimed lands, slated for inclusion in next year's budget.

The President, currently visiting Baa Atoll, acknowledged the persistent challenge of inadequate water, sewerage, and electricity services in reclaimed areas, citing Eydhafushi as a prominent example affecting various parts of the nation.

He said that the forthcoming budget will feature a special new policy initiative program dedicated to establishing utilities and infrastructure on undeveloped reclaimed land. Priority for this project will be given to islands with larger and more centralized populations, he said.

Under the previous administration's housing projects, land was designated through the dredging of Hulhumale', Gulhifalhu, and Giraavaru lagoons. While land registrations for Gulhifalhu lots have commenced, the Housing Ministry previously stated that land registries would only be issued following the completion of the Thilamale Bridge and the installation of water and sewerage systems in the area.

Addressing his presidential pledges for the development of Eydhafushi, President Muizzu stated that the construction of 1,000 housing units would commence this year and be completed within his term. He also indicated that the island port would be finished within the next six months and the construction of an indoor multi-sports complex would begin this year. Additionally, he pledged the establishment of an ATM serving US dollars this year and improvements to the quality of utility services, including electricity and water, with extensions to new land allotment areas.

On Monday, President Muizzu officially inaugurated the RTL ferry service in Eydhafushi. The same evening saw the signing of agreements for the establishment of a Maldives National University campus in Eydhafushi and the handover of the construction of the new building for the Baa Atoll Hospital.