Dhonfanu Residents Take Protest To The Sea Over Cancelled Land Reclamation Project

Residents of B. Dhonfanu staged a sea protest in opposition to the government’s decision to cancel a planned land reclamation project on the island.

The protest followed President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement earlier this week to withdraw the project, citing concerns over potential damage to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO biosphere reserve and one of the Maldives’ most significant marine habitats.

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In August, the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) was awarded a contract to reclaim 13 hectares of land in Dhonfanu, an island with a population of about 400 people. The project, signed during President Muizzu’s visit to the island, faced strong criticism from environmental advocates who warned of risks to Hanifaru Bay, which is a feeding and breeding ground for whale sharks, manta rays, and other endangered marine species.

Residents, however, have expressed disappointment with the cancellation, arguing that the island requires expansion. They have been holding a series of demonstrations since the announcement, with Friday’s protest extending to the sea, where groups of residents displayed banners from boats. The island council has indicated that protests will continue peacefully within 700 metres of the house reef.

The Dhonfanu Council had also announced a temporary ban on snorkelling and diving at the island’s house reef during the demonstrations, though the Local Government Authority (LGA) later declared the measure unlawful and ordered its removal.

Despite the cancellation of the reclamation, the government has pledged alternative development projects for Dhonfanu, including harbour upgrades and coastal protection works, according to Housing Minister Dr Abdulla Muthalib.