The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has announced plans to redevelop Bandeyri Koshi 1 to provide improved housing for a larger number of military personnel and police officers.

The MNDF said the Defence Ministry and MNDF are prioritising efforts to improve housing and welfare services for service personnel, who often spend extended periods away from their families while serving the country.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced plans for a dedicated housing project for military personnel on this year’s National Day. The redevelopment of Bandeyri Koshi 1 will involve constructing more apartments to provide temporary accommodation for more service personnel during their service.

The project will be implemented in phases, with preparations under way to redevelop the first building. The MNDF said the phased approach would minimise disruption to current residents.

Existing residents will be relocated to newly developed apartments as part of the project. The MNDF is also engaging with residents to explain the plans, address their concerns and identify solutions before the current apartments are vacated.

Upon completion, the project is expected to provide housing opportunities for more military personnel and police officers.

The MNDF said President Muizzu’s vision is to ensure that, by 2040, the services provided by the military to the public meet the standards of developed countries with well-equipped armed forces