Government Commissions New Housing Projects Across 36 Islands to Tackle Shortages

The Maldives government has commissioned housing projects across 36 inhabited islands since the current administration took office, aiming to alleviate critical housing shortages throughout the atolls. The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development confirmed that these new initiatives include a mix of row houses and apartment flats. Speaking on PSM’s 'Raajje Miadhu' programme, State Minister for Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Ahmed Nazim Mohamed revealed that housing projects are currently underway on 54 islands nationwide. In total, 8,588 units are under contract, with 6,363 of those belonging to the new projects initiated by the current administration. The remaining 2,250 units were contracted under previous governments. Minister Nazim expressed confidence that all ongoing physical works would be completed within the next five years. He emphasized the administration's commitment to ensuring the projects proceed without interruption until they are handed over to the beneficiaries. To prioritize resources, the government has identified 57 islands with the most urgent housing needs, estimating a total requirement of over 12,000 units. Contractors have already been secured for the majority of these locations. The distribution of units varies by island size and need: 20 islands will receive fewer than 100 units, 12 islands will receive 100 units, two will receive 150, and nine will receive 200. Additionally, 14 islands are slated for larger developments of over 200 units each. Recognizing that land allocation alone does not solve the housing crisis, the administration has introduced affordable financing based on Islamic principles. This scheme is specifically designed to assist citizens who have been allocated private plots but lack the financial means to construct their own homes.