President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Thursday assured residents of Dhevvadhoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll that the government will address the coastal erosion, harbour space constraints and waste management concerns of the island within this year’s State budget.
Addressing the residents of Dhevvadhoo, part of his ongoing three-day tour of the islands in Huvadhu Atoll, President Muizzu assured that he will address multiple issues requiring special attention, particularly the three major challenges currently facing the island including coastal erosion, harbour space constraints and waste management.
To implement these solutions, the President requested the island council to collaborate with the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure to develop a comprehensive solution addressing all three issues simultaneously.
He assured the full support of the government for restarting stalled projects whilst addressing coastal erosion, resolving harbour difficulties, increasing land area and finding sustainable solutions for waste management issues.
He noted that these solutions would benefit all residents, including fishermen.
Highlighting the ice plant in Dhevvadhoo, which has been non-operational for three years, the President announced that repair work would commence, while also revealing that the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources is working to procure an additional ice plant and begin operations.
With health and education being priority areas in this year's budget, the President announced plans to establish additional facilities at the Dhevvadhoo Health Centre, including paediatric services and X-ray facilities.
Furthermore, work has begun to expand sea ambulance services for geographically isolated areas like Dhevvadhoo that require long-distance travel. On the education front, the President also pledged to provide a multipurpose hall for the school.
Emphasising the importance of sports for public health, the President assured support for sports facilities, including a volleyball court and completing the football pitch with sub-base and turf as requested by the women of Dhevvadhoo. He also announced that an outdoor gym is being developed under the State Trading Organisation (STO)'s CSR programme and will be available in the near future.
Acknowledging residents' input, the President encouraged maintaining a positive outlook. He emphasised that the government aims to deliver according to people's wishes and reaffirmed that the current Administration stands firmly in service of its citizens.