MACL Completes 49 Hectares of Land Reclamation Despite Sunken Barge in Dredging Zone

The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has successfully completed the dredging of 49 hectares of land as part of the third phase of the Hulhumale' land reclamation project. Despite challenges, including a heavily rusted barge submerged in the lagoon, the project has progressed significantly. Photos from the site reveal the deteriorated condition of the barge, which has been underwater for a long time and poses a costly removal challenge. The vessel, which has no known owner, was previously unseen due to its submerged position. MACL has continued its dredging operations despite the barge, although the company has not responded to requests for comment. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had earlier announced in November that the dredging of the Giraavaru lagoon and Hulhumale' Phase III would be completed within three months. Land plots have since been drawn for recipients under the government’s housing programme. The third phase of the Hulhumale' reclamation project has faced criticism on social media, with concerns raised about its environmental impact and transparency.