Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has once again requested the removal of vessels harboured in Hulhumale' Phase III lagoon.

In an announcement on Wednesday, HDC said the removal of vessels was requested to facilitate the land reclamation project and to ensure that the vessels in the area are not damaged during the process.

As such, HDC requested the removal of vessels docked north of the red silt screen before Sunday, 23 June. The Corporation added that docking vessels in the area after Sunday is prohibited.

Hulhumale' Phase III reclamation has been temporarily halted due to a notice issued by Environment Protection Agency (EPA) over coral bleaching in the area.

A total of 15 hectares have been reclaimed of the 63 hectares planned for Hulhumalé Phase III. The first 10 hectares were completed last October.