No Current Plans for Uthuru Thila Falhu Development, Says Minister Muththalib

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, clarified the government’s stance on the development of the Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF) area, asserting that there are no current plans to develop the area after allocating land and flats.

This declaration comes in contrast to the previous government’s project, which proposed granting land to individuals who had resided in the Male’ city for two decades and held a 20-year registration. 

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The initiative focused on the UTF, where a dockyard and port construction project is currently underway. A visual representation detailing the land allocation through dredging, situated behind the designated army section, was also unveiled. Notably, 19,347 applicants expressed interest in securing a piece of this land.

Minister Muththalib explained the absence of a housing plan for the UTF, citing its sudden emergence during the election period. While acknowledging the need for a comprehensive plan, he emphasised that the Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, would investigate optimal strategies for the area.

The minister highlighted the potential challenges associated with the development of UTF, describing it as a costly and extensive undertaking. Muththalib stressed the importance of dedicating resources to providing essential services to the dredged Gulhi Falhu and Giraavaru during this time.

Addressing the prospect of the UTF, the minister indicated a lack of information on its progression under the present government. Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had previously announced plans to dredge 251 hectares of land for the allocation of plots in UTF, connected by a bridge to Gulhi Falhu, with over 5,000 plots slated for distribution.

Additionally, the government has committed to constructing a specialised port for the MNDF coast guard in the area, with an Indian company securing the contract for the development of the port and dockyard.

Muththalib acknowledged the land allocation by the previous government and the imminent completion of dredging but cautioned that shore protection works would require additional time. 

He clarified that the previous administration had not formulated a plan for the project.