Government Housing Schemes Attract Over 9,600 Applications

The government's housing schemes have drawn over 9,600 formal applications, indicating strong public demand. The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure confirmed that 9,645 individuals have successfully submitted their forms, with a clear preference for urban apartments. Of the total, 5,993 applicants are seeking flats, while 3,234 have requested residential plots. The primary driver of this interest is the family housing programme, which accounts for 9,227 submissions. An additional 418 applications were made under the specialized 'Goathi Gedhoru' programme, designed for individuals whose spouse may already own adequate housing. Beyond these completed applications, a significant backlog of interest exists, with 13,279 forms currently in the draft stage. Starting 1 April, the government will broaden support by introducing two new categories under the 'Gedhoruveriyaa' programme. Operating under the 'Boahiyaavahikan Emmenah' policy, these initiatives will include a dedicated category for individuals with disabilities. This expansion also aims to address issues from previous land schemes. It provides a pathway for families who received joint land allocations under the previous administration to transition to separate, individual plots. The new rules will also accommodate those previously disqualified from the 'Binveriyaa' land programme due to owning government social housing flats. Applications for the new categories will open at the start of next month. All currently active housing schemes will remain open for submissions until the end of April. To ensure fair access, the ministry has categorised applications to accommodate both native residents of Malé and those from other islands currently living in the capital. All submissions must be processed through the government’s centralised housing portal.