The government has decided to pay compensation of up to USD 28,000 for individuals who bought flats under the Gulhifalhu housing scheme announced during the administration of former President Mohamed Nasheed.
140 individuals had purchased flats under the Gulhifalhu housing scheme, which was announced in 2010. However, none of them were able to get their flats or even a refund on their purchase. The decision to pay compensation to the flat buyers was announced by Minister of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam, during a press conference held on July 6.
Speaking at the press conference, Minister Aslam revealed up to USD 28,000 will be issued as compensation to the flat buyers, at a rate of USD 778 per month in rental expenses between December 2017 and December 2020. The minister also revealed the flat buyers will be given the option to purchase a flat from the Hiyaa housing scheme or another housing scheme announced by the government. He added the price paid for the Gulhifalhu housing unit and the amount set for compensation will be deducted from the price of the new housing unit.
Speaking further, the housing minister said the amount to be paid for the new housing unit after deductions can be paid in installments over 20 years. He also noted if the price of the new housing unit is cheaper than the price paid for the Gulhifalhu housing unit, the difference will be paid to the buyer.
The decision to compensate buyers of flats under the Gulhifalhu housing scheme came after the buyers spent several years trying to acquire a compensation for their purchase.