Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development, Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, has revealed the government's ambitious plan to develop the northern and southern parts of the Maldives as designated urban development zones, aimed at accommodating a population of approximately 100,000 people.

In a recent interview with PSM News, Minister Dr Haidar Ahmed outlined the government's strategy to create urban centres across seven islands, with a focus on four atolls in the north and four in the south of the country. This is part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's vision to address population growth and provide better services to regions far from the capital, Malé.

Currently, the southern Maldives is home to around 50,000 people, while the northern regions have approximately 55,000 residents. The minister emphasised the need for a larger population base in these areas to support the development of high-quality services. He pointed out that without reaching a population of at least 100,000, it would be challenging to provide the level of tertiary services required for sustainable growth. Once these zones are developed, they will offer enhanced services and infrastructure for the population.

To achieve this, the Government plans to create separate urban centres within these zones, each equipped with its own service centres. These areas will not only promote local employment opportunities but also boost tourism and private business expansion. The development plan also aims to enhance the livelihoods of the people in these regions by focusing on both residential and economic development.

This urbanisation policy is outlined in Chapter 4 of the government’s manifesto, titled "Dhiveheenge Raajje," which outlines various proposals for housing and urbanisation.

Haa Alif (H.A.) Atoll, Baa Atoll, along with Shaviyani Atoll, will be developed as high-quality service areas in the northern development zone. This zone will also serve as the main hub, with Kulhudhuffushi as a City designated as the administrative centre. Hanimaadhoo will be developed as an international gateway, and an international trans-shipment port will be established at Ihavandhipolhu in Haa Alif Atoll.

For the southern Maldives, the manifesto proposes the development of high-end service areas in locations such as Gaafu Alif (Ga.) Atoll, Gaafu Dhaalu (GDH) Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Addu City. Addu City will serve as the administrative hub and international gateway for the southern zone. Additionally, the government plans to expand and develop international trans-shipment ports, while also focusing on industrial activities, fisheries, agriculture, mariculture, and tourism facilities.

This comprehensive development strategy aims to reduce the dependency on Malé while fostering economic and social growth across the Maldives' regional islands, promoting a more balanced and sustainable development model for the nation.