Villimalé Tower Plans Redrawn to Protect Indigenous Funa Trees

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development has revised the layout of a planned residential complex in Villimalé to protect the island's indigenous flora. One of three proposed 17-storey towers has been relocated to a site near the State Electric Company facility after officials determined the original blueprint would necessitate the destruction of native Funa trees. The two remaining towers will be constructed as originally planned, situated directly opposite Muhyiddin School. Ministry representatives emphasized that while the project is essential for the community, the government remains committed to preserving the area's natural greenery and avoiding the felling of large native trees. This development is a critical intervention designed to accommodate the rapidly expanding population of Villimalé. The project, situated on rent-free land, aims to deliver 300 residential units. According to the Bank of Maldives, which laid the initial foundation in February, the complex is slated for completion by mid-2028. The physical construction of the towers has been contracted to Rasheed Carpentry and Construction Private Limited. The Villimalé towers are part of a larger national strategy to mitigate the country's acute housing shortage. The project operates under the Maldives Monetary Authority’s Inclusive National Affordable Housing framework, with the BML Affordable Home Leasing Company—a dedicated subsidiary of the Bank of Maldives—spearheading the effort. In addition to the Villimalé development, the broader mandate includes the establishment of a total of 3,260 housing units. This comprehensive strategy will see an additional 2,700 residential units delivered across Phase I and Phase II of Hulhumalé, expanding affordable living options for citizens across the capital region.