Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has announced preparations to resume the land reclamation project in Ihavandhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, is underway.
The reclamation project began in Ihavandhoo last year but was halted after the dredger was damaged and taken away for repairs after MTCC reclaimed eight hectares of land. The state-owned company is bringing in a new large dredger from Belgium to resume the project and avoid further delay.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Adam Azim said that preparations to resume land reclamation is underway and that the company aims to complete the project within eight days. He also said that the shore protection project will begin following the reclamation of land.
Ihavandhoo Island Council stated that residents have expressed concern over the delay in completing the project as it is directly related to the development of the island. The council stated that the island is in need of land for housing and local businesses to provide more opportunities for the youth.
The Ihavandhoo Land Reclamation and Shore Protection project consists of the reclamation of 25 hectares of land and the construction of a 850m rock boulder revetment. The value of the project is USD7.5 million.