Uthuru Thilafalhu Reclamation to Begin After Giraavarufalhu Dredging Completion
Land reclamation planned after Giraavarufalhu dredging finishes | Photo: HDC
The government has announced that land reclamation at Uthuru Thilafalhu will commence shortly after the completion of dredging works at Giraavarufalhu.
The remarks were made during a press conference at the President’s Office, where the President Dr Mohamed Muizzu outlined plans for the development of Uthuru Thilafalhu. The area is to be zoned for residential and industrial use and will also include a dedicated rehabilitation facility to be known as Hope Island.
A central component of the project is the creation of a 200-hectare Agriculture Economic Zone. The first phase will prioritise the cultivation of imported plant varieties, primarily within greenhouse facilities. The second phase will expand production to include bulbs and tubers such as onions and potatoes, along with other staple food items commonly consumed in the Maldives.
The broader development plan also includes the establishment of a poultry farm and chicken hatchery during the second phase. The facility is intended to be scaled to meet national demand, with the objective of eliminating the need for egg imports.
Hope Island will serve as a juvenile rehabilitation centre for children considered at risk of engaging in criminal activity. The government plans to reclaim 15 hectares of land for the 700-capacity facility, which is expected to provide correctional services, rehabilitation and treatment programmes for minors exposed to criminal environments.
The President further highlighted the deployment of large dredging vessels to expedite reclamation projects across the Greater Malé region and the atolls. Reclamation for Hulhumalé Phase III has been completed, while dredging at Rasmale’ is progressing. More than 15 hectares have been reclaimed at Giraavarufalhu to date.
The planned reclamation of Uthuru Thilafalhu forms part of a wider government strategy to expand land availability in support of housing, industrial growth, agricultural development and social infrastructure initiatives.
