News

Government completes Binveriya land draw in Hulhumalé Phase III following urban plan overhaul

The government completed the drawing of lots to determine the location of residential plots under the Binveriya scheme in Hulhumalé Phase III, following extensive revisions to the island’s urban planning framework. The draw, held at Kalaafaanu School, reflects changes introduced by the Housing Development Corporation to the Hulhumalé Master Plan and Phase III Land Use Plan in response to infrastructure concerns.

Officials said the revisions were prompted by limited harbour capacity and difficulties in linking utility grids across phases. The restructuring required earlier plot allocations to be shifted, with new lot numbers issued to affected recipients.

The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure confirmed that 698 plots were distributed, spanning seven size categories. Entry to the venue was restricted to one representative per plot, with proxies permitted if they presented valid authorisation letters and identification for both the owner and the representative.

Recipients could view their allocations in real time through the Hiyaavehi portal and receive confirmation via SMS. The proceedings were also broadcast live, underscoring the government’s emphasis on transparency.

Land reclamation in Hulhumalé Phase III is progressing alongside the draw. More than 30 hectares of the planned 63-hectare area have already been reclaimed. Details regarding agreements and the formal handover of registries will be announced following the conclusion of the allocation process.