Azim’s first call as mayor to govt: Hand over UTF lands

Adam Azim, who took office as mayor of Male on Monday evening, has urged the government to expedite the allotment of land to the people of Male in Hulhumale, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi, as well as land from the Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF) for long term Male residents as was decided by the previous government.

Speaking after taking over as mayor, Azim said the biggest problem facing the people of the city is housing. He said the people of the city require housing in an area connected by a bridge.

“They want the Hulhumale Phase III, Gulhifalhu, Giraavaru-falhu and UTF targeted housing plans of the former MDP government to be completed. They want to start a life in these places connected by the bridge," Azim said.

He said it was his duty to share these stories with the President and ask him to continue it that way.

"I think the quickest development can be done only when it is all connected with a bridge. This is the only way to find a solution to this crisis," Azim said.

He said housing would be provided to registered residents, long-time residents and residents of the city.

"If you become the president who will start the new life of the inhabitants of the UTF, it will be a relief that your government brings to the peoples’ hearts," Azim said.

He asked President Muizzu to continue the previous government's decision to give land in UTF.

Azim also asked President Muizzu to include Hulhumale Phase III, Gulhifalhu, Giraavaru lagoon and UTF within the jurisdiction of the city.

It is noteworthy that in the second round of the last presidential election, the then President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih decided to give land in UTF under the second phase of the Binnveriyaa scheme and the Gedhoruvriyaa scheme.

They announced that they would give land to people who have been living in the city for over 20 years and those who have been registered in the municipality register that long.

Under the first phase of the Binnveriyaa scheme, land has been allocated to the people of Hulhumale, Gulhifalhu and Giraavaru lagoon. The registry of the land is currently being handed over for those that were given land by Solih regime.