Minister of Planning and Economic Development Mohamed Aslam said that they will begin the causeway development projects after completing the necessary assessments.

Five causeway projects have been scheduled for this year, to connect Meemu Muli and Naalaafushi, Thaa Vemandoo and Kimbidhoo, Laamu Hithadhoo and Mendhoo and Kunahandhoo, as well as Kalaidhoo and Dhanbidhoo.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Aslam said that no project in the state budget will be ignored and that the projects will not be rushed, either.

He said that there are enough funds in the state budget but that development of causeways has an impact on the environment and therefore the projects need to be assessed. Aslam further emphasized the damage incurred on the citizens due to previous projects that had been rushed.

The Planning Ministry has stated that the causeways will allow tides to pass through without being blocked.