Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib has said that the Government will continue with planned development projects in Baa Dhonfan even if land reclamation does not take place.

He made the statement following President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s announcement that the reclamation project would not proceed. The President explained in a post on his official X account on Tuesday that the decision was made following requests from residents.

Building on this position, the Minister emphasised that the Government remains committed to resolving the challenges faced by the island’s harbour and to safeguarding its coastline, irrespective of whether reclamation is pursued.

The President clarified that while he had previously pledged to undertake land reclamation at the request of the island’s community, and an agreement had already been signed, circumstances had since changed. He said that he had received communication from the residents expressing their opposition to dredging works. The relevant Ministry, he added, will formally notify the island council of the decision today.

The President visited Baa Dhonfanu on 13 August, during which several development projects were initiated.