President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced the cancellation of the controversial Dhonfan, Baa Atoll land reclamation dredging project, heeding the direct requests of the local community.
The decision comes amidst significant public concern over the project's potential environmental impact on the adjacent Hanifaru Bay, a vital Biosphere Reserve - a major tourist attraction for the Maldives.
Originally signed during the President's visit to Baa Atoll last August, the plan involved dredging 13 hectares of land from the Dhonfan lagoon. However, environmentalists and residents widely feared that the proposed activity would irreparably damage Hanifaru Bay, a critical ecological site.
In a post shared on social media, President Dr Muizzu affirmed his administration's commitment to a governance model that prioritises public will, stating he would not proceed with any island-level initiative that lacked the community's consent.
While he reiterated a promise to implement a land reclamation project in Dhonfan at the request of its people, he clarified that the specific dredging project would not continue following the change in public opinion.
President Dr Muizzu affirmed that his Administration will not pursue any initiative that does not align with the aspirations and needs of the citizens.
He further confirmed that the relevant authorities would formally notify the Dhonfan Island Council of the decision later Tuesday.
Adding to the clarification, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, confirmed via social media that while the dredging project would not proceed, the government remains committed to addressing the island’s harbour issues and protecting its shore protection needs.
This reversal marks a significant victory for community advocacy and environmental protection, signaling a government responsive to its citizens' concerns, especially regarding sensitive ecological zones.