Govt takes control of 14 land plots under Malé City Council
The government recently amended land-related legislation to allow land to be taken for state development projects.
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The government has announced the transfer of 14 land plots previously under the jurisdiction of Malé City Council to state ownership, with plans to develop infrastructure, commercial facilities and public services at the sites.
In an announcement issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure said the land had been designated for projects intended to meet the infrastructure and development needs of residents in Malé and Vilimalé.
The ministry said the decision was made under the Decentralisation Act to facilitate the provision, expansion and maintenance of infrastructure and services.
The announcement identified the 14 sites and outlined the projects planned for each location.
The ministry also invited individuals and organisations wishing to submit objections or comments regarding the proposed developments to do so in writing within 14 days.
The sites removed from the council's jurisdiction and the government's proposed uses are:
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1-
Sultan Park and Museum area: Development of an e-sports arena and museum park.
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2-
Fish Market: Development of a government building with office and commercial spaces available for rent.
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3-
Local Market: Construction of a wet market complex.
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4-
Travellers' Market: Development of a mixed-use commercial project.
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5-
Malé City Council accommodation block: Conversion into accommodation and storage facilities for Public Works Service employees.
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6-
Traders' Association office café: Development of a daycare centre and an activity centre for children.
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7-
Carnival area: Development of sports facilities and a mixed-use commercial project.
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8-
Artificial Beach: Further development of the area and construction of public sports facilities.
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9-
Rasfannu: Maintenance of the area under government supervision.
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10-
Former State Trading Organisation fuel station site: Development of an electric vehicle charging facility on land currently used by the council for planting and maintaining trees.
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11-
Bodibaiy Park: Development of a parking building and mixed-use commercial facilities on land currently used as a park and parking area.
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12-
Thaiseykoshi: Use of the site, currently occupied by Malé City Council, as a temporary worksite.
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13-
Pay Toilet 2: Construction of a public restroom facility.
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14-
Masveringe Maizaan: Continued use and maintenance of the site as an MWSC pumping station under government supervision.
The government's decision comes amid disagreements with Malé City Council over the implementation of development projects in the capital.
The council, which is controlled by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has repeatedly expressed concern that the government is undertaking projects within its jurisdiction without consultation or prior notification.
The council has also accused the government of withholding project documents and attempting to reduce its authority over municipal services.
The government recently amended land-related legislation to allow land to be taken for state development projects.
However, the law requires the government to share project details and relevant documents with the council, consult the council and seek public opinion before implementing projects on land under council jurisdiction.
Malé City Council maintains that the government has not shared the required documentation.
The council has also raised concerns that the transfer of its responsibilities and authority to central government institutions could affect its ability to deliver services to residents.
The latest decision follows changes to legislation governing public transport and roads.
Under the new law, recently ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, responsibility for maintaining roads in Malé has been removed from the council until the end of 2029.
The changes will also deprive Malé City Council of revenue from traffic-related fees, which have been among its principal sources of income.
The transfer of the 14 sites represents a further change in the division of responsibilities between the government and Malé City Council, as disputes continue over land management, development projects and municipal authority in the capital.
