The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development has stated that the land required to begin construction of the Malé Wet Market Complex has yet to be handed over by the Malé City Council, despite repeated requests over the past two months.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry said the project is part of ongoing efforts to modernise market infrastructure in Malé and provide improved facilities and services for both the public and vendors.

The project is estimated to cost MVR 116.99 million.

The ministry said it first requested the site from the Malé City Council on 29 March 2026. Follow-up letters were sent on 12 April, 3 May and 18 May, each requesting that the land be handed over by specific deadlines.

The council responded on 30 April, stating that the Mayor of Malé City wished to meet with the minister before the land was transferred.

The ministry said all administrative procedures and financing arrangements for the project have been completed, and the contractor is fully prepared to begin work. However, construction cannot commence until the designated site is formally handed over.

Expressing concern over the delay, the ministry noted that each day construction is postponed increases project costs and delays the delivery of an important public service.

The Malé Wet Market Complex is designed as a modern multi-storey facility featuring fish and produce markets, stainless steel kiosks for fish vendors, kiosks for fruit and vegetable sellers, fire protection systems, five lifts and a five-tonne ice machine.

The basement will be used for parking, while the ground floor will house the fish market. The first and second floors will accommodate fruit, vegetable and agricultural produce markets. A food court will be located on the terrace level.

The project is scheduled for completion within 180 days.

The ministry said the Government’s priority is to begin construction as soon as possible so that residents of Malé can benefit from the upgraded market facilities without further delay.