The 'Ras Malé' reclamation project will proceed as a zero-carbon, safe island concept, says President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

The president said this in his remarks during the commencement ceremony held in Fushi Dhiggaru Lagoon on Monday.

As such, the president revealed that the reclamation project will proceed on a zero-carbon and safe island concept as per his presidential pledge.

Highlighting that Ras Malé is being developed as a safe island with adequate area to fulfil international standards, the president noted that it would surpass the height designated as a secure island under international criteria, as it would rise three meters above in the center and approximately two meters above on either side.

Noting that eco-friendly methods would be observed in developing all the facilities in Ras Malé, President Muizzu noted that the development plans would create a green and calming atmosphere.

Further, he stated that it will be an eco-friendly, green, and eco-city powered by renewable energy.

He detailed that vehicles operating in Ras Malé would be powered by environment-friendly or clean energy and noted that it would be designed to be marketed globally as the Maldives Eco City.

Noting that the city will be developed as a convenient city for all, the president added that the city would be accessible for those with disabilities as well.

In addition to this, the president added that roads, public grounds, and buildings will be wide-ranging and accessible to all so that people with disabilities can easily participate.

The ceremony also saw President Muizzu announcing that once Hulhumalé, Ras Malé, Gulhifalhu, and Giraavarufalhu are linked, they will pave the path for a solution to the housing crisis facing the Greater Malé Region.

The incumbent administration prioritizes addressing traffic congestion and housing in the GMR.

A total of 1,153 hectares of land will be reclaimed from Fushi Dhiggaru Lagoon and once completed, the government is expected to construct 65,000 housing units comprising plots of land and apartments.