Hanimaadhoo Council: Government's plan for the relocation of Hirimaradhoo residents remains unclear

The Hanimaadhoo Island Council has expressed concern over the government's plan to relocate the residents of Hirimaradhoo to HDh. Hanimaadhoo, stating that the project's objectives remain unclear and that the process lacks transparency.

In an interview with RaajjeTV, Hanimaadhoo Council President Ali Ibrahim stated that although the President had pledged to complete the housing project for the residents of Hirimaradhoo and hand over the keys within 18 months, the actual progress of the work appears to be deeply mired in confusion.

Ali Ibrahim stated that the government had previously provided assurances to construct 500 housing units in Hanimaadhoo and to establish water and sewerage networks in the area where 200 land plots were recently allocated. However, he noted that key projects initiated earlier have now come to a standstill. He emphasized that the suspension of these vital infrastructure projects remains the Council's primary grievance.

He further stated that the Council has always emphasized the importance of completing ongoing works before initiating any new projects.

Hirimaradhoo Council has refuted allegations that the government is reclaiming land previously allocated for the relocation of the island's residents due to a lack of cooperation from the local authority. Council President Ali Ibrahim dismissed these claims, asserting that there has been no instance where the council has withheld its cooperation.

The designated area for the relocation and settlement of the residents of Hirimaradhoo in Hanimaadhoo. | Raajje MV

However, he stated that since the area falls under the council's jurisdiction, compensation must be provided for the palms and trees located there. He further alleged that the government reclaimed the land merely to create an illusion of progress for the people of Hirimaradhoo, suggesting the move was intended to deceive the public into believing that work was underway at the site.

Furthermore, the Council President stated that after repeated requests to conduct a survey of the area, a plan and design have finally been shared. However, he noted that the residents of Hirimaradhoo will only be able to utilize the site once essential services are adequately established. To achieve this, he emphasized that it is crucial to complete the projects that are currently at a standstill.

Hirimaradhoo Citing the residents, Ali Ibrahim stated that the community remains unclear on the government’s specific plan for their relocation and the decommissioning of the island. He noted that the residents are particularly uncertain about the origins of the 184 housing units promised by the government, adding that they have no information regarding the legal registration or titles for these properties.

One of the most significant concerns is that the residents of Hirimaradhoo have no information regarding the 184 housing units—specifically, where they will be located or whether they have been officially registered. I have personally visited Hirimaradhoo and obtained the list myself.

Hanimaadhoo Council President Ali Ibrahim

Ali Ibrahim stated that the Hanimaadhoo Council will always work in the best interests of the people of Hirimaradhoo and will ensure they receive all the services they are entitled to.