Healthcare and Connectivity Take Centre Stage in President Muizzu’s Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo Development Agenda

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced a wide-ranging infrastructure initiative for Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo in Laamu Atoll, committing to major investments in healthcare, transport, and tourism. Construction on key projects is expected to begin within the current year.

The announcement was delivered during a community gathering with residents of both islands, where President Muizzu outlined a series of measures aimed at strengthening essential services and advancing regional development.

A new hospital will anchor healthcare expansion across both islands

Central to the programme is the establishment of a new 30-bed hospital designed to serve both Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo. The president confirmed that construction of the facility will commence this year.

“The hospital will be established in a location that ensures the residents of both islands can easily access the services,” he said. “Furthermore, we will focus on enhancing the services provided by the existing health centres even before the new hospital is constructed.”

Road development hinges on resolving sewage infrastructure failures

President Muizzu underscored the importance of road development, describing it as foundational to the success of all other infrastructure efforts. He noted that progress remains contingent on resolving longstanding issues with the islands’ sewage system. The current system, which took considerable time to implement, is not in a usable state and must be addressed before road construction can proceed.

Kalaidhoo harbour project awarded as inter-island connectivity gains momentum

Plans to improve maritime access include the development of Kalaidhoo harbour, a project formally awarded to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The agreement was signed during the official ceremony by Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib and MTCC Managing Director Ahmed Saudee.

The government expects the harbour project to provide a permanent solution to the navigation and berthing difficulties currently faced by the island’s residents. MTCC, the contracting party, is recognised for its extensive engagement in infrastructure development across multiple regions of the Maldives.

Airport development emerges as a top regional priority

During his visit to Laamu Atoll, President Muizzu identified airport development as the most frequently raised issue, with three islands requesting the facility. He stated that sustainability would guide the planning process.

One proposed location offers a distinct advantage: the absence of a need for land reclamation, which would significantly reduce costs. The president confirmed that a final decision on the site for Laamu Atoll’s second airport will be made shortly, with construction to follow soon after.

Tourism strategy aims to leverage historical identity for economic growth

Economic diversification is also part of the agenda. President Muizzu suggested that the historical significance of Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo could be leveraged to expand tourism. He proposed that heritage-focused initiatives may generate substantial income for Kalaidhoo.

He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to advancing multiple projects aimed at improving the convenience and overall development of the citizens of Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo.

Work begins on Kalaidhoo-Dhan’bidhoo link

The government has also launched the implementation phase of the Kalaidhoo-Dhan’bidhoo causeway project. Designed to enhance inter-island connectivity within Laamu Atoll, the development is also being undertaken by MTCC.

The company’s appointment for both projects reinforces its role as a principal actor in national infrastructure, having successfully completed numerous initiatives in recent years and continuing to lead many such efforts across the country.

Work begins on Isdhoo waste centre to address persistent service challenges

Environmental infrastructure is progressing in parallel. Practical work on the waste and facilities management centre in Isdhoo has officially commenced, with the inauguration led by Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer during President Muizzu’s visit to the island.

The construction and operation of the centre have been entrusted to the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO). The government believes the facility will offer a lasting solution to the persistent waste management challenges affecting Isdhoo.

President meets Isdhoo council to review development priorities

During his visit to Laamu Atoll, President Muizzu met with members of the Isdhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee, and heads of local institutions to review development progress and hear directly from community leaders. The meeting focused on a range of pressing concerns, including infrastructure deficiencies, educational constraints, and proposals for recreational and cultural initiatives.

Council members raised several infrastructure-related issues, citing unresolved electricity and sewerage problems and the need to repair the island’s generator. They also noted the urgent requirement for eight additional classrooms to address overcrowding at the local school. Requests were made for increased staffing and resources at the healthcare centre to meet growing demand.

In addition to service-related concerns, members proposed a series of recreational upgrades, including the replacement of the futsal turf, the establishment of a jogging track, and the construction of an indoor badminton court. The council also shared the island’s heritage development plan with the president, highlighting local efforts to preserve and promote Isdhoo’s cultural identity.

Laamu achieves full ATM coverage as BML finalises regional installation drive

The Bank of Maldives (BML) has successfully completed the installation and inauguration of ATM services across all inhabited islands of the Laamu Atoll, marking a significant step toward achieving nationwide financial inclusion. The milestone was reached during the ongoing tour of the atoll by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The completion of service coverage in Laamu Atoll was cemented by recent inauguration ceremonies held in Kalaidhoo and Isdhoo, both in Laamu Atoll.

During his current tour, which covers 11 islands of Laamu Atoll, the President officially launched ATM services in seven islands that had previously lacked them. These newly serviced islands include Hithadhoo, Kunahandhoo, Dan'bidhoo, Maabaidhoo, Mundoo, Isdhoo, and Kalaidhoo.