The Government has directed the Ministry of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works to conduct a nationwide survey to assess island residents' perspectives on migration to other areas. 

This initiative was announced by Minister Adam Shareef Umar during the launch of the ministry’s five-year action plan.

As part of the Government's broader strategy, the ministry has been tasked with evaluating public sentiment towards relocation from smaller islands. The survey will focus on understanding the willingness of island populations to migrate and the factors influencing their decisions.

Another key responsibility assigned to the ministry is the relocation of residents from Haa Dhaalu Hirimaradhoo to another island. According to the minister, this decision aligns with ongoing efforts to address population distribution challenges in the Maldives. The relocation plan follows previous discussions with the Island Council, which had communicated that many residents of Hirimaradhoo were in favour of moving to an island closer to the Malé area.

Based on these considerations, Kaafu Thulusdhoo has been identified as a potential relocation site due to its availability of land to accommodate new residents. The Government has assured that measures will be taken to facilitate this transition effectively.

Recent census data indicates that Hirimaradhoo's population has decreased significantly, with only 293 residents remaining. Many inhabitants have already moved to other islands, reinforcing the need for a structured relocation plan.

The five-year action plan unveiled by the ministry incorporates the president’s commitments and outlines strategies to meet the Government’s development objectives. The plan is expected to guide policies related to urbanisation, local governance, and sustainable population distribution across the country.