The government plans to enable essential services for residents of Hulhumale' Phase II to be provided on plots allocated to private owners, according to Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr Abdulla Muththalib.
The minister made the remarks during the inauguration of the project to install additional lifts in the Hiyaa towers.
Dr Muththalib said that more than 2,000 plots had been allocated to Male' residents in Hulhumalé Phases II and III. At present, these plots are designated solely for residential use. However, he stressed the importance of allowing private sector investment so that essential services could also be established within these areas.
He noted that similar services are already available on privately owned land in Male' and said residents of Hulhumale' should have access to the same opportunities. He added that this approach would not only benefit plot owners but also strengthen Hulhumale’s economy by creating new jobs and business opportunities.
“At present, if someone wishes to build a private hospital, they can only do so if HDC allocates land specifically for that purpose. Instead, opportunities should be created for such services to be established on the more than 2,000 plots already allocated to the public. The government will work to ensure these plots can be used appropriately to provide residents with greater convenience, accessibility and a wider range of services,” the minister said.
He added that the government would work closely with the private sector to develop plans to facilitate this policy. The aim, he said, is to overcome land constraints and the shortage of essential services by making better use of existing plots.
Turning to the Hiyaa housing scheme, Dr Muththalib acknowledged that one of its biggest challenges is that many families living in two-bedroom flats have since grown in size but currently have limited opportunities to move to larger accommodation.
Although he did not announce any specific measures, the minister said the government recognises the difficulties faced by Hiyaa residents and is considering possible solutions.
He said future housing policies would focus on improving the living standards of those already residing in government flats while creating opportunities for them to move into larger, more comfortable and better-quality homes. The government remains committed to improving housing conditions and expanding options for residents, he added.