Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has completed the land reclamation and shore protection project in Ukulhas, Alifu Alifu Atoll.
The government contracted MTCC for the reclamation of 13 hectares of land in Ukulhas. The state-owned company commenced the reclamation on August 7. As such, the sand filling operations have been completed and the construction of a revetment is underway to protect the reclaimed area. The scope of the project includes the reclamation of 402,500cbm, the construction of a 1,054m revetment, 80m groyne, and 1,692m bund works. The total value of the project is USD4.3 million.
Ukulhas Island Council aims to maximise benefits for the community through the use of the reclaimed land. Primarily, the council intends to allocate it for housing residents without homes. Additionally, they are exploring the possibility of constructing flats and rowhouses on the reclaimed land. A comprehensive plan has been developed by the council for the utilisation of this reclaimed land, encompassing economic prospects.
With a population of 1,200, Ukulhas faces pressing housing needs. The island has abundant land, but housing shortages persist. Over 200 families have awaited land allocation for over 25 years. Presently, the island has 258 households, often accommodating multiple families in one dwelling due to insufficient land availability.