Concern over delays in starting Ukulhas beach protection project

Jan 20, 2026, 5:27 AM
Photo: Adhadhu

Photo: Adhadhu

The people of Alif Alif Ukulhas island, a popular local tourism destination, has expressed concern over delays in starting a beach protection project.

The project was awarded to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) during the Solih administration to address the beach erosion problem.

Ukulhas council President Shaukath Ibrahim (Manik) told Adhadhu that a large part of beach has been lost to erosion.

Photo: Adhadhu
Photo: Adhadhu

Photo: Adhadhu

“There is a project formulated by the previous government to protect the beach. But it has not been implemented by this government,” he said.

He said that the council and residents have repeatedly requested the Muizzu administration to find a solution to the erosion problem.

Photo: Adhadhu
Photo: Adhadhu

Photo: Adhadhu

President Mohamed Muizzu's most recent visit to the island was in August 2025. During a meeting with him, guesthouse businesses requested to begin the project as soon as possible.

Muizzu assured that the project would be given priority. But Shaukath said there has been no progress so far.

The Ukulhas beach protection project was awarded to MTCC on July 25, 2023, at a cost of more than MVR 28 million.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

MDP to stage protests if referendum is not held on Rasmale' deal

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has passed a resolution to launch mass protests if the government does not hold a public referendum regarding the Rasmalé project. The opposition demands a halt to the project, citing concerns over secret financing and the potential sale of the site to a foreign businessman.

Nasheed announces full support for Rasmale' project

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has declared his full support for the government's plan to sell part of the Rasmalé project to a UAE businessman. Despite opposition within the MDP calling for a public referendum, Nasheed argues the investment will yield long-term benefits for the Maldives. He remains the sole party member against the move.

Chinese Ambassador applauds Muizzu's successful Pakistan trip

Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua praised President Muizzu’s successful state visit to Pakistan, where 20 agreements were signed to boost bilateral trade. The meeting between Chinese and Pakistani officials highlights strengthening ties, which India is monitoring closely given the regional dynamics and its own financial support to the Maldives.

Defence Minister visits the UAE embassy

Defence Minister Hassan Rasheed met with UAE Chargé d'Affaires Heba Al Jneibi to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. The visit follows controversy over a deal to sell 500 hectares of the Rasmalé reclamation project to UAE-based Eagle Hills. This move contradicts President Muizzu’s earlier pledge to keep the land under local ownership.

Commission formed to investigate the alleged sale of territory

President Muizzu has formed a commission to investigate the alleged sale of Maldivian maritime territory during a boundary dispute with the Chagos Archipelago. The inquiry will examine potential legal negligence by the previous administration and recommend actions against those responsible to prevent future occurrences.

Boating Association demands probe over diver altercation

The National Boating Association of Maldives has called for a formal probe into a viral video showing an underwater physical struggle between two diving teams. The NBAM condemned the incident and urged authorities to investigate the ownership and regulatory compliance of the vessels involved to protect the industry's reputation.

Five injured after gas cylinder explosion at Hulhumale’ cafe

Five people were injured, with four hospitalized, after a gas cylinder exploded at a cafe in Hulhumale' Phase 1. Emergency teams responded to the resulting fire near the Ruhgandu 1 area. Police are currently investigating the cause of the blast.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox