President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Sunday reassured the residents of the completion of land reclamation in Gulhi Island highlighting that the land reclamation project would not come to a standstill before the bund wall and reclamation efforts are fully completed. The President reassured the resident’s during his address to the residents of Gulhi Island while meeting with the residential community during his visit to the island today.
Reassuring the realisation of the people’s aspirations regarding the land reclamation project, the President detailed that the signing of the project took place in the last days of the previous administration; however, funds had not been earmarked in the budget then. He emphasised that, despite this setback, a team from the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) is actively working on the project. The President highlighted that this demonstrates the current Administration’s commitment to realising the people’s aspirations, in contrast to previous administrations. He added that the project would continue in line with the plans of the council.
Addressing the issue of space constraints at the harbour, the President stated that the Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure, along with the Gulhi Island Council, would decide whether a new harbour needs to be constructed or if development can take place at the existing harbour. He said that the decision would prioritise the most beneficial solution, with significant consideration given to the economic benefits for the island. The President highlighted that the Administration is seeking technical advice for a solution through the ongoing harbour channel project, adding that any feasible solution identified through the project would be considered. The President emphasised that resolving space constraints at the harbour is tied to the development of Gulhi Island.
Speaking of the issue of land allotted for tourism purposes that does not benefit the island, the President stated that, after studying the matter, if the Attorney General, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Island Council determine that terminating the agreement is in the island’s best interest, the Administration would facilitate this process.
Speaking further, the President stated that the resumption of stalled projects in the education sector and capacity-building efforts for the health sector of the island would be prioritised within this year’s government budget. He also pledged to resolve the issue of space constraints at the island mosque and address the island’s waste management problem.
The President’s visit to Gulhi Island marks his maiden trip to the islands this year as part of his ongoing programme of visiting all the atolls of the nation, which he initiated in 2024, aiming to engage in discussions with local councils across the atolls, islands, and cities.
