Seven islands to be developed urban centres announced

The seven islands which will be developed as urban centres in line with an electoral pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was announced on Saturday.

Housing Ministry, in an announcement, disclosed the seven islands decided by the President as:

• R. Ungoofaaru
• B. Eydhafushi
• Lh. Naifaru
• ADh. Mahibadhoo
• F. Nilandhoo
• Dh. Kudahuvadhoo
• L. Fonadhoo

President Muizzu has previously stated that two zones in north and south Maldives will be developed as integrated development zone in addition to these seven islands being developed as urban centres. As per the President, the purpose of the developing these zones ensure development and population across the Maldives are distributed to various regions.

Notably, a government-backed bill has been submitted to the parliament to pave the way for the establishment of the urban centres. The bill is presently in the committee stages. In this regard, the bill is being reviewed by a Joint Committee between the National Development and Heritage Committee and Decentralization Committee.

Main opposition MDP has raised concerns regarding the bill, citing it would disempower local councils and destroy the decentralization system.