President Muizzu Announces Land Reclamation and Airport Development in Faafu Atoll

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu makes pledges relating to land reclamation for Bileiydhoo and Feeali, as well as airport development for Nilandhoo in Faafu Atoll, during his ongoing tour of four islands in the Maldives. 

Starting Friday, the President aims to visit 31 islands on four atolls within eight days, the President’s Office said. He first visited Vaavu Atoll, where he made pledges relating to land reclamation, harbour development, and infrastructural projects to the residents of the atoll, in addition to discussing possible avenues for relocation for the residents of Vaavu Atoll, Rakeedhoo, who wish to move to an island closer to Male’ for easier access to essential services.

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Muizzu Pledges Harbour Expansion and Land Reclamation in Bileiydhoo

President Muizzu has pledged that harbour expansion and land reclamation in Faafu Atoll Bileiydhoo will be carried out to the maximum feasible extent, in compliance with regulations.

Speaking at a community meeting during his visit yesterday, the President said the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) would complete the project, with land reclamation prioritised in next year’s budget and other key initiatives planned for 2026.

President Dr @MMuizzu visits F. Bileiydhoo, welcomed warmly as he continues his engagement with local communities. #RayyithunGaathah #VMFThVisit pic.twitter.com/hlRvc2sqMJ— The President’s Office (@presidencymv) September 20, 2025

During the visit, he also launched several projects, including the new Police Station and Health Centre, and laid the foundation stone for a Fitness and Recreation Centre.

The President met with the Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee, and local institutions, who highlighted the need to upgrade the harbour, accelerate land reclamation, and begin road construction. He assured the Government would address their concerns and provide updates on ongoing works.

Muizzu Reaffirms Land Reclamation Commitment in Feeali

President Muizzu has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to resume the 15-hectare land reclamation project in Faafu Atoll Feeali, pledging that work will begin once a shipment of rock boulders arrives.

He said reclamation efforts on other islands, stalled due to material shortages, will also restart as new consignments are delivered.

During a meeting with the community at Faafu Atoll Madharusa, residents raised concerns over stalled projects, the need for timely completion of initiatives, and operational issues at the Feeali Ice Plant. The President assured the Government would address these challenges.

As part of his visit, agreements were signed for the upgrading of Feeali Harbour, along with the construction of a jetty, mosque, and futsal ground. He also officiated the groundbreaking for the new Police Station and inaugurated Bank of Maldives ATM services on the island.

President Sets 30-Month Timeline for Nilandhoo Airport

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the development of Faafu Atoll Nilandhoo Airport will be completed within 30 months, with land reclamation revised to accommodate an 1,800-metre runway.

Speaking during his visit on Saturday, the President said Nilandhoo has been identified as an Urban Centre and outlined a range of projects, including the resumption of the sewerage system within 24 months, completion of the water network this year, and new road works.

He confirmed ongoing housing and hospital projects, alongside plans for a sports complex and Islamic Centre next year. Agreements were also signed for harbour development, waste management, a canning facility, fuel storage, and road construction. Passport issuance services were launched during the visit.

Addressing broader challenges, he pledged firm action against drug abuse and gang crime, citing new laws and amendments under review. He assured residents that development and public safety initiatives will continue through direct community engagement and adherence to the rule of law.