The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has completed eight hectares of land reclamation in Laamu Maavah as part of an ongoing project to reclaim a total of 30 hectares.

MTCC confirmed that eight hectares have been reclaimed to date, with works continuing around the clock. Maavah Island Council President Ahmed Moosa said the pace of work is intended to expedite completion.

The Government initially approved the reclamation of 15 hectares for Maavah. However, following further consultations with residents and concerns raised during the presidential visit to the island, the scope of the project was expanded to 30 hectares to better meet the island’s development needs.

Once reclamation works are completed, housing development will be prioritised on the newly reclaimed land. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has also announced plans to develop a football stadium in the area to improve sports and recreational facilities for residents.

The reclamation works, which began in April 2024, aims to address the severe limitations in available land for housing and development. According to the Maavah Island Council, no land has been leased on the island for more than 20 years due to the shortage of usable space.

In addition, the Island Council said a designated swimming area will be developed within the reclaimed land, noting that Maavah, an island with a population of approximately 2,200, currently lacks a suitable public swimming area, which is seen as important for community well-being.