President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the government will no longer proceed with plans to reclaim land at B. Dhonfanu, reversing an earlier decision to dredge 13 hectares of the island's lagoon.
The original plan, announced during the President's visit to the island last month, aimed to address housing shortages on Dhonfanu. The government had contracted the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) for the project, which would have doubled the size of the island.
Public Opposition Influences Government Action
The decision comes after a widely signed petition opposing the project raised concerns about environmental damage to the nearby Hanifaru Bay. In a post on X today, President Muizzu stressed that government initiatives respond to the needs and wishes of residents.
"Development pledges for islands are made in response to requests from their residents. We will not move forward with actions that the public opposes," the President said.
He added, "I pledged a land reclamation project in B. Dhonfanu based on requests from the island's residents. An agreement was signed to fulfill this pledge. However, I have now learned that the public does not approve of this. Therefore, the government will not go forward with reclaiming land on that island."
The Ministry will formally communicate this decision to the B. Dhonfanu council today.
Environmental Concerns Around Hanifaru Bay
Environmentalists have consistently warned that dredging near Hanifaru Bay could cause irreversible damage to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Located about one kilometer east of Dhonfanu, Hanifaru Bay is known worldwide for its population of whale sharks and manta rays.
The bay’s unique currents create an environment where large groups of these endangered species gather, particularly during the southwest monsoon, making it a critical feeding site. The area attracts both locals and tourists, highlighting its ecological and economic significance.
Dhonfanu’s Development Context
The last time land plots were issued in Dhonfanu was in 2011. Residents had requested additional land reclamation to support housing needs, which led to the initial 13-hectare proposal. However, the strong public response against the environmental risks of the project prompted the President to halt the initiative.
By responding to the public’s concerns, the government demonstrates a willingness to balance development goals with environmental preservation, ensuring that the natural treasures of the Maldives, like Hanifaru Bay, remain protected for future generations.
