The Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar, has stated that requests have been put forward regarding the relocation of residents from an island in Vaavu Atoll and Meemu Atoll. 

Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, the Minister explained that while there has been a request to transfer residents from one island to another, further details will only be disclosed if the island councils approve such a move. The relocation, he noted, would be based on the preferences of the island councils and the communities involved.

The Government has previously taken steps to facilitate the relocation of residents from Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo following requests from the island’s population. Addressing the matter, the Minister acknowledged that the process is complex and requires thorough planning. Policy documents are being drafted to guide the transition, with two initial copies of these documents already completed.

The Administration has given its commitment to ensuring that the relocation of Hirimaradhoo residents to Hanimaadhoo takes place within its current term. A formal decision to implement the move was made on February 1. Presently, approximately one-third of Hirimaradhoo’s population resides outside the island, with around 200 people remaining.

The Minister highlighted that the Government faces challenges in providing equitable services to smaller communities with low populations. To address these concerns, efforts are being made to shift residents from smaller islands to more developed areas in alignment with existing policies.