President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that Island Councils will be granted the authority to develop policies for awarding points in the allocation of housing units, taking into account the specific circumstances of each island.

During his visit to Baa Thulhaadhoo, undertaken as part of his tour of all inhabited islands in the atoll, the President confirmed that the Government is seeking contractors to construct 100 housing units on the island. He explained that the project is currently in the pre-qualification stage, with several applications already received. Once this stage is completed, bidding will open for price submissions, after which the contract will be awarded.

The President stated that, upon completion of the housing project, the Island Council will determine the allocation policy in consultation with residents. He emphasised that the Ministry of Housing will approve the implementation of the rules only after confirming that they comply with the agreed policy.

He added that the objective is to ensure the rules governing the distribution of housing units are tailored to the distinct needs of each island. The policy, he said, should guarantee that the criteria for allocation are consistent with local conditions and that the standards are established accordingly.

In addition to the housing initiative, the President announced that the Administration will change the status of land in Thulhaadhoo currently classified as Bandaara goathi, granting full ownership to those who have reclaimed the land for the plots.