Second phase of Hulhumale

The government has decided to begin the second phase of reclamation and development of Hulhumale’ as soon as possible.

The Cabinet made this decision at the meeting held today following discussion of a paper presented by Housing Ministry. The professional work and discussions on the second phase is to begin shortly.

Hulhumale’ development project is a mega project initiated by Gayoom’s administration on 16 October 1997, to provide housing for all citizens and reduce congestion in Male’.

Former President Nasheed’s government made the decision in December 2011 to build a bridge across the sea between Male’ and Hulhumale’. An amount from $70 to $100 million was estimated to be spent on this project, which would result in a sustainable solution to housing and other social problems.

At today’s Cabinet meeting, the Cabinet also proposed joining the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), following discussion of a paper presented by Environment Ministry. They noted the importance of joining this convention because of the Maldives economy’s dependency on wildlife.