Tsunami housing projects will be completed by end of 2014, assures President

President Abdulla Yameen has assured that the government will complete all housing projects for the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami victims, by the end of 2014.

Speaking at the official ceremony to mark Unity Day, President Yameen noted that even after 9 years since the disaster, the government has not been able to complete the housing projects. The projects will be completed by the end of 2014, as promised in the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives' manifesto, the President said.

Maldives marks Unity Day in remembrance of the victims who lost their lives during the Indian Ocean tsunami that devastated the country and the region on 26 December 2004.

“About 427 families still need housing. Projects to provide housing are ongoing. It gives me great pleasure to say that by the end of 2014, God willing, housing will be provided to the people who have not received them over the tsunami, as stated in the government’s manifesto," said the President.

“Unity of the nation, bond of friendship within the society and social development. The government strongly believes their importance. If groups try to instigate unrest, the country might lose its peace and face grave dangers,” President Yameen said.

A total of 190 islands were affected in the 2004 tsunami, out of which, 5 islands were completely devastated. One-third of the population was directly affected and 15,000 people were left homeless. This forced the people of 13 islands to be re-located. The disaster claimed 82 lives and 26 people were reported missing.