The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has revealed that the land reclamation project in Hirilandhoo, Thaa Atoll, will be completed by August.
The land reclamation project in Hirilandhoo was awarded to MTCC in late 2020, to be completed at a cost of USD6.79 million. The scope includes dredging and reclamation of 25 hectares, construction of rock boulder revetment of 1,080m, and the construction of an 80m groyne.
Speaking to journalists after observing the project site, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Adam Azim said the bund wall has been built and the reclamation process has begun. He detailed that the area will be filled after the construction of the revetment. He said there might be a delay as a channel has to be created for the barge bringing in the rock boulders. He further said that the dredger will arrive in July and the entire project will be completed by August.
Hirilandhoo spans 29 hectares and has a population of over 1,200. Hirilandhoo does extensive industrial work such as making fish products and fibre works. As such, 15 land plots have been leased to make fish products, and 95% of the residents are involved in various industrial work to earn an income on the island.
Hirilandhoo Island Council has stated that the lack of land is one of the biggest issues for the growing population, as there are no more land plots for residents. The council stated that the issue has been becoming severe for the last 10 years and that over 200 residents had submitted applications for the last available land plots. The council added that families are having to live in small households while workers have to make use of limited spaces. However, residents have expressed hope that the land reclamation project will pave the way for better housing and more opportunities for businesses.