The government will develop the development zones in the north and south of the country to serve a population of 100,000 people, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development, Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed has said.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has designated seven islands for development as urban centres. Additionally, President Muizzu has decided to develop two special development zones; one encompassing the four northernmost atolls of the Maldives, and another for the four southernmost atolls.
Speaking to PSM News over the landmark development plan, Minister Dr Haidar stressed on the need to develop additional areas similar to the densely populated capital Malé, especially in the north and south of the island nation.
The Minister highlighted that these areas are regions that include populous islands located far from Malé. Around 200,000 people live in the southern islands, while the recorded population in the north is around 55,000.
“It will be extremely difficult to provide high-quality services unless the population is brought to 100,000. A large population is needed to come and seek tertiary-level services. Once these areas are developed, high-quality services will be available,” Dr Haidar said.
The Minister added that the government’s plan also includes developing separate urban centres within the urban regions which, according to him, will include a wide range of service facilities.
These zones are being planned to create job opportunities along with wider opportunities for tourism and the chance to expand private businesses, he added.
Chapter 4 of the Dhiveheenge Raajje, President Dr. Muizzu’s election manifesto, is dedicated to the government's policies on housing and urbanisation. In addition to the Malé Urban Region, the government has announced plans to establish a Northern Development Zone as a high quality service area, including Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls. Meanwhile, Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi City has been designated as the main administrative hub of this zone, with Hanimaadhoo in the same atoll established as an international gateway and the establishment of an international transshipment port in Ihavandhippolhu, Haa Alifu Atoll.
The manifesto also includes the establishment of a Southern Development Zone with world-class service facilities, encompassing Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Fuvahmulah City and Addu City. Addu City has been designated as both the main administrative hub and international gateway for the Southern Zone. The plan to expand and develop an international transshipment port, industrial activities, fisheries, agriculture, mariculture, as well as tourism facilities has also been detailed in the manifesto.