Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has revealed a total of 63 hectares of land has been reclaimed so far under the Dhidhdhoo land reclamation project, representing more than half of the total planned work.
The reclamation project, being carried out by MACL, is intended to support airport development and housing needs in Dhidhdhoo. Reclamation work began on 5 January, with a total of 112 hectares of land to be reclaimed under the project.
MACL told PSM News that 63 hectares of reclamation work has now been completed, accounting for 56.25 per cent of the overall project.
Officials said the dredger being used for the project is among the largest in the world. The trailing suction hopper dredger Leiv Eriksson has a capacity of 46,000 cubic metres and is being used to accelerate reclamation works.
Although Dhidhdhoo has a registered population of around 5,000, the number increases to approximately 7,000 due to people relocating to the island for education and healthcare services. Dhidhdhoo serves as the administrative capital of Haa Alifu Atoll.
The land reclamation project was pledged by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu as part of his development commitments to the island and the wider region. The airport is expected to improve transportation links and contribute to economic development across the atoll.
In addition to Dhidhdhoo, nearby islands including Vashafaru, Filladhoo, Kelaa, Muraidhoo, Baarah and Utheemu are also expected to benefit from the airport project. Haa Alifu Atoll currently has an airport in Hoarafushi and comprises 14 inhabited islands with a population of approximately 20,000.