Ministers say no decision taken on Dharavandhoo land reclamation

Two cabinet ministers on Friday said the government has not decided to reclaim land in B. Dharavandhoo for the purpose of extending the island’s airport runway, amid public concern over the proximity of any such project to Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll.

The clarification follows the circulation of a concept design for a proposed land reclamation project in Dharavandhoo on social media, which prompted public discussion and concern about potential effects on the nearby marine protected area. Some media reports had stated that a decision to proceed with reclamation had already been taken.

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib and Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen both rejected these claims in statements issued on social media.

Minister Muththalib said the only action taken in relation to land reclamation in Dharavandhoo was a preliminary concept study conducted last year. He said no decision has been approved by the government.

He added that if any project were to be approved, consultations with the Dharavandhoo Island Council would be required as an initial step.

Minister Ameen also denied reports that a decision had been made to expand the runway through land reclamation. He said current efforts are focused on improving existing airport facilities, including terminal upgrades and operational improvements.

The situation follows a similar issue involving a proposed land reclamation project in Dhonfanu, another island near Hanifaru Bay. That proposal was paused after public concern was raised, with the government citing a lack of support from the local community. Subsequent demonstrations in favour of the project later led the government to state that the proposal had originated from community requests.