Maldives Government Plans Land Reclamation in Bandidhoo for Industrial Use

The Maldivian government has decided to reclaim a portion of Dh. Bandidhoo's lagoon to relocate fibre-related and similar industrial work that currently disrupts local life on the island.

During his visit to the islands of Dhaalu Atoll, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced that the government would reclaim the maximum possible area from the lagoon. However, as the project is not included in the 2025 budget, it will be completed next year.

“It is the hope of islanders here that land be reclaimed for work such as fibre work, which causes difficulties for the people, be moved there," said President Muizzu.

He further explained that the current location of fibre-related activities is a public area, posing potential risks. Therefore, in addition to relocating fibre work, the government also plans to move the waste management site to the newly reclaimed land.

Along with the reclamation project, the government will also work on protecting the eroded areas of the island. “In practice, this will result in reclamation of land, and I will include a project to relocate the [fibre and waste] working places in this island [to the reclaimed area] in next year's budget,” Dr. Muizzu stated.

Addressing additional concerns from Bandidhoo residents, the president acknowledged the need to replace the island’s harbour outer barrier to better accommodate fishermen and smaller vessels. This project, considered a long-term investment, will be included in the 2025 budget.

Furthermore, President Muizzu assured locals that the expansion of the school, health centre, and other facility improvements are already included in this year’s budget.