Residents of Buruni, Thaa Atoll can anticipate significant progress in both housing and infrastructure, as President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced plans to construct 30 new social housing units on the island next year.
The pledge was made during the community meeting with the people of Buruni, where the President unveiled a comprehensive development agenda for the island.
Addressing the community on his visit to the island on Tuesday as part of his ongoing tour of four Atolls, the President emphasised the government's steadfast commitment to addressing housing shortages nationwide.
He detailed the government's multi-faceted approach, which includes the issuance of soft loans, facilitating housing projects on private land, and construction of social housing units. Acknowledging the specific housing challenges faced by Buruni, the President assured residents that these issues would be tackled in next year's budget.
"After the council decides with the people's opinion, we will start building 30 housing units in Buruni next year. The people have the opportunity to decide whether they will build on their own land or in a separate area of the island,” he explained.
Beyond housing, President Dr Muizzu outlined several other key development projects. He confirmed that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the development of the island harbour has commenced, incorporating changes requested by the island council, with practical work slated to begin this year. This harbour development will be accompanied by a shore protection project and the construction of a pier specifically for reef fishing.
Further enhancing community services, the President announced the successful launch of ATM services in Buruni. He also assured that the new youth center would be completed within six months, and the island school would be equipped with air-conditioning. The construction of a new building for the island council secretariat has also been arranged through a grant aid from China.
Healthcare facilities are also set for an upgrade, with the development of the island health center expected to be completed very soon. Additionally, the President revealed that a new volleyball court would be finalised within four months, and the construction of a police station is scheduled to commence shortly, further bolstering public safety and recreational opportunities for Buruni residents.
Major Boost for Fitness and Recreation in Buruni
The President’s visit saw the official groundbreaking on the new Fitness and Recreation Center (FRC) in Buruni.
The ceremony was led by the Minister of Finance and Planning, Moosa Zameer and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef.
MACL has been contracted to construct the centre at a cost of USD 342,412, with an expected completion timeline of 250 days. The facility is planned to feature an indoor hall, a gymnasium, aerobics facilities, a meeting room, and dedicated office space, aiming to significantly enhance community well-being and recreational opportunities in Buruni.
New ATM in Buruni, Advancing Nationwide Financial Access
President Dr Muizzu, during the visit officially inaugurated Bank of Maldives (BML) ATM service in Burni.
Following the inauguration, which underscores a significant stride in enhancing financial infrastructure, President Dr Muizzu presented a commemorative plaque to the island council.
This new 24-hour ATM facility is a crucial component of the President's broader vision to establish ATM services in all islands across the nation, aiming to provide essential cash withdrawal, deposit, bill payment, and transfer services for both individuals and businesses.
The comprehensive project, spearheaded by BML, has already seen ATMs successfully installed in all islands across 13 atolls, with an ambitious target to complete the full nationwide rollout by the end of this year.