The land reclamation project in Naifaru, Lhaviyani Atoll has reached a key milestone, with 54 per cent of dredging work now completed, according to officials.
The project began in October last year following a visit by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and forms a central part of the government’s plan to develop Naifaru into a major urban centre.
The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) is carrying out the USD 44 million project, which will reclaim 44.8 hectares of land to address space constraints on the densely populated island.
The expansion is expected to support housing development and create new economic and social opportunities for the island’s population of over 5,000 residents.
While the initial phase involves reclaiming 21 hectares, the government has decided to proceed with the full development under its Urban Centre Development Project, utilising the entire allocated area.
In addition to dredging, the project includes extensive coastal protection measures, such as 1,813 metres of large rock revetment, 803 metres of rock boulder outer seawall and 474 metres of large rock groynes to protect the reclaimed land from erosion.
Naifaru has previously undergone land expansion, with 16 hectares reclaimed in 2004 to address housing needs.
The current project is scheduled for completion within one year and nine months and is expected to significantly increase the island’s land area from its current 55 hectares, supporting its growing population and urban development.