Haalu Kihineh? Dh Maaenboodhoo: Residents' primary concern remains stalled land reclamation project

Residents of Dhaalu Atoll Maaenboodhoo have expressed deep concern over the suspension of the island's land reclamation project, citing significant negative impacts on the local coastline and environment.

Residents of Maaenboodhoo, speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Haalu Kihineh?" program, have expressed deep concern over the suspension of the island's land reclamation project and recent changes to the water system, which have caused a foul odor to emanate from household wells.

A resident of Maenboodhoo noted that although the land reclamation project was launched to coincide with the recent local council elections, the community initially welcomed the development. However, he stated that the work commenced abruptly for the election and was subsequently abandoned without any prior notice. He further emphasized that the suspension of the project has caused numerous difficulties for the residents.

The most significant issue is the severe pollution of the surrounding lagoon. The land reclamation project presented to us was merely a facade, and its consequences are now directly impacting nearby households. The situation has escalated to the point where the environment has become nearly uninhabitable.

A resident of Dhaalu Atoll Maaenboodhoo

Another resident of Maaenboodhoo noted that President Muizzu had pledged to reclaim 28 hectares of land for the island, along with an additional 2 hectares for a picnic island. He highlighted that the area where reclamation has commenced was a vital fishing spot for many locals, providing a primary source of food for numerous families. However, he lamented that this livelihood is no longer an option.

A former member of the previous island council has alleged significant negligence by the current administration regarding the local land reclamation project. He stated that while the previous administration under former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had completed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and budgeted for the reclamation of 15 hectares, President Muizzu instead pledged to reclaim 30 hectares during his campaign visit to Maaenboodhoo.

"I would describe it as a sense of desperation; people were in such dire need that when they were told 30 hectares is better than 15, we all simply broke into applause. In my view, had we settled for those 15 hectares, the project could have already been realized."

A resident of Dhaalu Atoll Maaenboodhoo

Furthermore, several residents of Maaenboodhoo who spoke on the matter stated that a significant portion of the reclaimed land designated for the boundary wall construction has already been lost to erosion.

This project was launched on September 3, 2025. However, work was halted following the completion of the boundary wall. The suspension of the project has disrupted the local water system, causing significant difficulties for residents. Consequently, the island community has expressed deep concern over the lack of progress.