Raiymandhoo Residents Seek Clarification on Relocation Options

Residents of Raiymandhoo in Meemu Atoll have requested the government to clarify relocation options for the island’s small population.

Ismail Nahid, President of the Island Council, told MV+ that three residents submitted a letter to the council, accompanied by a petition signed by 114 people, expressing concerns about limited access to basic services and requesting relocation options to an area with better infrastructure.

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The petition specifically inquired about the possibility of relocating to Rasmale’, following the reclamation of Fushi Dhiggaru near Malé. The Rasmale’ project is part of the government’s initiative to expand the Greater Malé Area, aiming to reduce pressure on land in Malé and Hulhumalé as more people migrate to the capital in search of essential services.

Nahid confirmed that the council convened to discuss the letter and petition. They decided to forward the documents to the central government, along with a report outlining the current situation on the island. Raiymandhoo has a population of just 239 people. While the island has 24-hour electricity and a health centre, its school only provides education up to Grade 6, and the island’s jetty faces access difficulties.

This marks the second relocation request from an island this week. Earlier, residents of Hirimaradhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll submitted a similar request to the Local Government Authority (LGA), seeking to relocate to Thulusdhoo in Kaafu Atoll. Hirimaradhoo’s population stands at 293, according to the 2022 census.

Both islands’ requests reflect a growing concern among smaller, remote communities about access to basic services as successive administration has focused development of services in and near capital city over those of remote communities.