President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that development projects planned for Rasmaadhoo, Raa Atoll will be implemented this year, encouraging island residents to remain optimistic and confident. He made the statement while meeting with Rasmaadhoo residents as part of his ongoing visit to several islands of Raa Atoll.
In his address, the President acknowledged the numerous developmental needs of Rasmaadhoo, and vowed to address them swiftly. The current year and the following year will be two years where development projects in Rasmaadhoo and other islands will be prioritised, he noted.
Noting that the island’s water project is at a halt, the President said a way forward has now been determined, and assured the people of the timely completion of the project.
During the meeting, Rasmaadhoo Council’s President Mohamed Asif expressed concern that a large part of the 30-hectare island had been lost to severe land erosion, noting that the long-standing issue has not been addressed to date.
Referring to the issue, President Muizzu said the concern will be prioritised and implement a long-term solution. He also pledged to develop a swimming area on the island.
Noting that the current year’s budget prioritises housing initiatives, President Muizzu explained the focus on housing aims to tackle broader social issues. He pledged to launch a housing project in Rasmaadhoo as part of these efforts.
On education, the President noted that three initiatives in Rasmaadhoo were at a halt, including the construction of a three-story building to house additional classrooms in the island’s school. While the completion of the project will bring about solutions to other significant issues, the government will focus on the project’s completion, he assured.
Highlighting health sector issues, President Muizzu said the healthcare services on the island will be enhanced by expanding the island’s health centre will be expanded, along with the development of a laboratory. In the area of sports, he pledged to develop a football ground and a sports recreation centre on the island within the year.
Highlighting the absence of a police presence on Rasmaadhoo, the president pledged to establish a police centre on the island in the first quarter of the year. Additionally, while the island’s residents have expressed a desire to relocate the island’s antennae to another area, this need too will be addressed promptly, he said.
Concluding his remarks, the President assured his commitment to ensuring the full benefits of Rasmaadhoo’s development projects are realised.