The Government is planning an additional affordable housing project in the Greater Malé Region as part of ongoing efforts to address housing shortages, according to State Minister for Infrastructure, Housing and Urban DevelopmentAhmed Nazim Mohamed.

Speaking on a State media, Nazim said the construction of 3,260 housing units in Malé and Vilimalé has already commenced through BML Affordable Home Leasing Company, a subsidiary of Bank of Maldives (BML). He noted that housing remains one of the biggest challenges facing residents of the Greater Malé Region and said efforts are continuing to expand housing opportunities.

Nazim said discussions are underway with BML to allocate additional land for further housing developments, adding that future projects would be carried out based on the company's financial capacity.

He added that the overall target is to develop 4,000 housing units in the Greater Malé Region. He also highlighted ongoing housing projects in Gulhifalhu and other areas where additional developments could be undertaken if land becomes available.

Nazim expressed confidence that the current Administration would be able to complete and hand over the ongoing housing projects before the end of its term. He said the Government has given high priority to addressing housing needs and is continuing efforts to accelerate the implementation of housing programmes across the region.