The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has announced plans to introduce three new dredgers in October, aimed at expediting land reclamation and dredging initiatives across the Malé region. This strategic deployment is designed to address recent project delays and ensure continuous progress in critical urban development efforts.
The new equipment comprises two 45,000-tonne hopper dredgers and one 11,000-tonne hopper dredger, which will significantly enhance the corporation’s capacity to manage ongoing reclamation projects. HDC officials emphasized that the additional machinery is crucial for maintaining project momentum and addressing previous interruptions that have drawn public attention.
Current reclamation efforts are concentrated on several strategic sites, including Hulhumalé Phase 3, Gulhifalhu, Giraavaru Falhu, Uthuru Thila Falhu, and Rasmale’. Of particular significance is the Rasmale’ reclamation project, which stands as the largest of its kind in the region and represents a cornerstone of the government’s urban expansion strategy.
The government has set an ambitious target of developing 65,000 housing units, encompassing both residential flats and land plots, contingent upon the successful completion of reclamation works. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has consistently positioned housing as a national priority, characterizing the current administration’s approach as ushering in a “golden age of housing”.
HDC representatives have committed to working collaboratively with relevant authorities to mitigate potential challenges and maintain an accelerated project timeline. The corporation remains dedicated to overcoming obstacles and ensuring the timely execution of these critical urban development initiatives.
The expanded dredging capabilities are expected to provide a significant boost to the government’s housing and infrastructure development goals. By increasing operational capacity and addressing previous project delays, HDC aims to demonstrate its commitment to meeting the growing housing needs of the Malé region.
As the reclamation projects progress, stakeholders and residents alike will be closely monitoring the implementation of these ambitious urban expansion plans. The successful deployment of additional dredging equipment represents a critical step in transforming the government’s housing vision into tangible reality.
