President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the development of Vilufushi Airport will be completed within 30 months, while a new hospital on the island is expected to become operational within 18 months.

Speaking to residents of Vilufushi during his ongoing tour of inhabited islands across four atolls, the President confirmed that land reclamation for the airport will begin tomorrow at a site chosen by the local community. The airport will feature a runway measuring 1,800 metres, with the project scheduled for completion within two and a half years.

Simultaneously, construction of the Vilufushi Hospital is set to commence, with the Government pledging to deliver a state-of-the-art facility within a year and a half.

Addressing housing concerns, President Dr Muizzu stated that water, electricity, and sewerage systems will be installed in all completed housing units by the end of the year. He also announced plans for an additional 100 housing units next year, with the option for construction on individual residents’ plots.

The President further committed to resolving long-standing housing issues dating back to the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami. He added that the Government is prepared to provide financial compensation to affected individuals if necessary.

President Dr Muizzu revealed that Bank of Maldives ATM services will be inaugurated tomorrow, alongside the groundbreaking of a new branch on the island, which is expected to be operational by March next year.

Outlining projects earmarked for next year’s budget, the President announced the construction of a Maldives National University (MNU) campus and the expansion of the island’s harbour. He further revealed plans to upgrade the local mosque into an Islamic Centre.

President Dr Muizzu assured that the road development project formalised tonight will include the ring road as well. He further added that work on a football stadium, futsal court, and handball court, also formalised tonight, would begin this year, while fish aggregation devices to support sports fishing would be installed within three months.

The President also announced that the Government would establish a Public Works Unit on the island to support ongoing and future development initiatives.

During the event, the President oversaw the official launch of passport issuance services in Vilufushi.