Dhonfanu reclamation scrapped amid concerns on biosphere reserve

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the government will not proceed with the planned land reclamation project in Baa Dhonfanu.

The project, located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, was announced during the President’s visit to the atoll last month. Environmental organisations and members of the public raised concerns that reclamation could damage the reserve’s ecosystems and negatively impact tourism.

In a post on X on Tuesday, President Muizzu said the project had initially been promised following requests from residents of Dhonfanu, with an agreement signed to proceed. However, he said more recent feedback indicated that residents no longer supported the plan.

“This government will not undertake projects in a community where people do not want them,” the President wrote. “The government will continue to work with the people and towards their goals.”

He confirmed that the relevant ministry would send a letter to the Dhonfanu Council formally notifying it of the decision.