President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday expressed his commitment to address the land shortage in Maduvvaree, Raa Atoll.
Speaking to residents of Maduvarree during his visit to the island on Wednesday, assured that he will deliver on his presidential pledges to the island.
The President noted that land scarcity in Maduvvaree remains the primary concern for residents, pledging a land reclamation project to create more land to address the shortage.
President estimated that the lagoon surrounding the island can be dredged to create around six hectares of land. He promised to initiate the reclamation during this year.
The President also pledged to address the harbour, shore protection and outer breakwater issues currently plaguing the island.
"We can dredge around six hectares of land around this island. That will not solve the housing shortage. Moving the industrial activities out of the island is the best way to utilise the available land. Because of the industrial fiber work, there is a high risk of cancer in this island. So I will add Ufulandhoo to the jurisdiction of this island,” President explained.
He said paperwork to include the neighbouring island of Ufulandhoo under jurisdiction of Maduvvaree is being drawn up so that industrial activities can be moved out of residential areas.
President Muizzu also recalled his presidential pledge to build 50 housing units in Maduvvaree, revealing that the government will invite contractors to undertake all such housing projects across the country before the end of the month.
He said the government will also deliver road development, expand the health center and build a new football stadium in Maduvvaree as promised during his presidential campaign.