The land reclamation project for the third phase of Hulhumalé has been resumed, with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) announcing the removal of vehicles from the project area.

According to HDC, vehicle owners have been asked to clear the area by 6 November to allow reclamation work to proceed smoothly.

The Hulhumalé Phase III project had previously been halted after the Sri Lankan company, Capital Marine and Civil Construction Company (CMCC), stopped work. Construction Minister Dr Mohamed Waheed earlier stated that the government had made advance payments totalling USD 35 million to CMCC in three instalments, but the company had not continued with the project.

Minister Waheed also said the government had initiated procedures to terminate the agreement with CMCC, submitting it to the Attorney General’s Office for review. However, he noted that work could resume with CMCC if the company brings in the required dredger.

The government has yet to provide an update on the progress of the reclamation for Hulhumalé Phase III. CMCC was originally contracted to carry out reclamation projects for Hulhumalé Phase III, Giravarulhu, and Rasmalé.