Minister of Housing, Land, and Urban Development, Ali Haidar, has assured that beneficiaries of the 'Binveriya Scheme' will have their land plots officially registered, with the registration process expected to be completed within the next few months. He made this statement during an interview with PSM News regarding the progress of the ongoing lottery for land allocation from Gulhifalhu.
Minister Haidar asserted that the land allocation process is being conducted impartially, free from any external influence. He stated that the registration process will conclude within a few months, and the land will be officially handed over following the completion of the Thilamala Bridge. He also clarified that, in accordance with regulations, registration cannot be issued for dredged land; however, a document will be provided to the beneficiaries.
Minister Haidar further noted that the land use plan developed by the previous administration for the development of Gulhifalhu was inadequate. However, he emphasized that the current land use plan has been designed to create a comfortable environment for residents. He indicated that the new plan includes provisions for social, economic, and recreational purposes.
A total of 3,520 plots of varying sizes have been allocated from Gulhifalhu. Detailed information regarding the current land use plan and the acquired areas will be accessible on the shelter portal.
The previous land use plan lacked a stipulated distance of 100 feet between industrial and residential zones. It was also situated far from residential areas where essential public services are provided. Furthermore, there was an insufficient provision of sports facilities and parks, with only 8 percent designated as green space.
In contrast, the current land use plan formulated by the Ministry of Housing allocates 21 percent of the land for parks and green spaces. Residential areas and schools are designed to be within a 10-minute walking distance, while mosques are located just a 5-minute walk away. The new plan also designates 70,000 parking spaces throughout the area to accommodate vehicles.