Dh. Maaenboodhoo land reclamation project: Work grinds to a complete halt following construction of boundary wall!

The President of the Dhaalu atoll Maaenboodhoo Island Council, Nooma Mohamed, has stated that the island's land reclamation project has come to a complete standstill. According to the Council President, all work has ceased following the installation of the boundary wall.

Expressing concern over the suspension of the land reclamation project, Nooma stated in an interview with RaajjeTV that the initiative originally commenced on September 3, 2025. Nooma further detailed that the project was scheduled to reclaim 15 hectares in its first phase and an additional 15 hectares in the second phase. This includes 28 hectares connected to the main island and 2 hectares designated for a picnic island.

Nooma stated that although the current contract covers the reclamation of 15 hectares of land, President Muizzu has pledged to reclaim an additional 15 hectares. She further noted that work has come to a standstill after the completion of the boundary wall for the initial 15 hectares, causing significant difficulties for the local residents.

Significant changes are currently being observed in the island's water system, leading to numerous complaints from residents. Those living on the southern side, in particular, have reported foul odors emanating from their wells and water that has become too brackish for use. It is highly probable that these issues are the result of adverse impacts on the island’s natural freshwater lens and its circulation patterns.

Nooma Mohamed

Nooma stated that although she spoke with two coordinators from the Housing Ministry to obtain an update on the project, she did not receive a satisfactory response. According to her, one coordinator claimed that work would commence sometime this year, while the other stated that only the water system project had been included in this year's budget.

Highlighting the significance of the land reclamation project for the residents of Maaenboodhoo, Nooma noted that the last time residential plots were allocated on the island was in 1996. She emphasized that as a result, thousands of families are currently in urgent need of housing.