President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday met the people of Kulhudhuffushi, while visiting the island to attend the meeting of the Cabinet held in the island earlier yesterday.

 
Attending a rally organized by ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Kulhudhuffushi last evening, the President said the government’s aim was to develop Kulhudhuffushi as a ‘Malé in North.’
 
Stating that the government pledged to provide affordable housing for all, he also highlighted the government’s efforts to provide a affordable and prosperous life for the people over the past two years.
 
In this regard, he said new land was reclaimed in Dhidhdhoo and Kulhudhuffushi of Upper North Province and expressed confidence that everyone of Thiladhunmathi will benefit from the new land added to two islands.
 
Addressing the people of Kulhudhuffushi, the President said land reclamation and harbor construction was completed in 11 islands of Upper North Province and land reclamation and harbour construction would begin in another 13 islands this year.
 
In addition, he revealed, commercial harbor development program would be carried out in Kulhudhuffushi, Hoarafushi, Ihavandhoo and Dhidhdhoo this year.
 
Outlining the planned development projects for Thiladhunmathi, the President said telemedicine services will also be established in 10 island’s of the Province, as part of improving health services.
 
Furthermore, the President said to fulfill the government’s pledge to build 10,000 housing units in the Maldives, 625 out of all the housing units allocated for the Province has been contracted and was expected to begin construction this year.
 
The President also stated that the water and sewerage system in Kulhudhuhfushi was expected to be completed early this year, and the budget has been allocated to begin building of sewerage system in another 4 islands and water grids in 3 islands in the Province.
 

Underlining the success of the government’s social protection programme, the President said 9076 people of Thiladhunmathi have being insured under Madhana health insurance scheme, while 3027 people received old age pension. He also said 839 residents of Thiladhunmathi also received social security benefits paid to single parents and people with special need.