Minister of National Planning and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam has stated Maldivians need to consider the option of building houses over lagoons rather than reclaiming land.
In response to a question in the Parliament of Maldives on the construction of a causeway between Veymandoo and Kinbidhoo of Thaa Atoll, Minister Aslam said the initial design of the causeway needs to be modified, stating the causeway will cost over USD 45.3 million if it is to be built with piers. The minister added reclaiming the causeway by filling the reef with sand is also not feasible, as it will severely damage the environment. He said infrastructure development in Maldives needs to suit the nature of a small-island nation.
Speaking in this regard, Minister Aslam expressed belief a waterway would be more suitable than a causeway between Kinbidhoo and Veymandoo. The minister said developing a waterway and introducing vessels that can be used in the waterway would be more feasible both environmentally and economically. Expressing the idea of developing routes through lagoons and providing fundamental services to the people over water, the minister said Maldivians need to consider the option of building houses over lagoons rather than reclaiming land.
Land reclamation and harbour construction projects conducted in Maldives have negatively impacted the environment of islands, damaging reefs and lagoons.