President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Government will accelerate the development of Hanimaadhoo International Airport, with the goal of making it fully operational by November. He made the remarks during a meeting with Hanimaadhoo residents as part of his visit to the inhabited islands of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll.

The President acknowledged delays in the project but assured that ongoing works would prepare the airport for international travel. He also confirmed that a Bank of Maldives counter will be opened at the airport, along with US dollar and rufiyaa ATMs from both the Bank of Maldives and Maldives Islamic Bank. Passport and national identity card services will also be introduced on the island when the airport opens.

On housing, President Muizzu said the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) will begin constructing 500 housing units next month. The project will combine concentrated housing blocks and individual plots. He added that the relocation housing scheme for Hirimaradhoo residents will proceed, while the currently court-suspended housing project will resume once approval is granted.

The President also revealed plans for a 17-kilometre road development project in Hanimaadhoo, scheduled to begin in 2026 and finish in 2027. An agreement was signed during the visit to hand over the construction of a new school building, which will also accommodate students relocating from Hirimaradhoo.

In addition, President Dr Muizzu announced that work will officially commence tomorrow on a new police station, a fitness and recreation centre, and a 30-bed hospital. Dialysis services will begin at the existing health centre before the end of this year, while a gynaecologist and paediatrician will also be stationed in Hanimaadhoo.

Reaffirming the island’s importance, President Dr Muizzu said Hanimaadhoo is a key part of national development and central to the Government’s Sustainable Development Policy.