Development of 12,000 flats to begin this year: Muththalib

Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib has stated that in a bid to resolve the housing issues faced in the country, construction of 12,000 flats will be commenced within the year. 

On State TV PSM's 'Raajje Miadhu' program, the Minister explained that the country's economic situation at the time this administration took office made securing loans difficult. As a result, the government sought urgent solutions through discussions with the central bank MMA and other institutions. This led to the decision to allocate 10-15 percent of bank lending, at a 5-6 percent profit rate, for housing. 

The minister said that the project under this model will be conducted in a manner where the cost can be recovered. 

He stated that under this model, the Bank of Maldives has been tasked with developing 3,300 flats. Mobilization work on some will be completed within the month, he said. 

These flats are to be constructed in Hulhumale' and Vilimale'. 

The Minister estimates that this project will reach conclusion within the next two years. In addition to this, a project to build 4,000 housing units in Gulhi Falhu on Indian aid will also be carried out, he revealed, adding that funding for this has now been secured. 

Currently, documents are being exchanged on the project between Maldives and India, with the project slated to start mid-year. 

According to the minister, development of a total 12,000 flats will be commenced within the year, a scale unseen under any administration to date. The government is prioritizing the development of 3 bedroom flats, he added. 

The minister dismissed criticism that these flats do not really exist, saying discussions are already being held on the matter with foreign partners, with preparations underway to launch the projects. 

Muththalib went on to reveal that 877 applications have been received over the past two days to the government's first Male' region housing scheme. This includes 221 applications for land plots and 416 applications for flats. 

The minister advised applicants to keep applications at draft stage while ensuring all required documentation is obtained before submittal. 

"No person's rights should be infringed upon through some submitting falsified information. I urge applicants to read through the policy and submit the required documents. Otherwise, there's nothing that can be done later if you don't receive (flats or land)," the minister said. 

The minister addressed concerns where among married couples, only one can apply. He maintains that it is not right for two flats to be obtained through submitting the same information. He further said that the government's goal is to provide housing for those who do not have any. 

Muththalib reiterated the importance of ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted. This, he said, is the way to ensure applications are not rejected for not meeting requirements. He reminded the public that there is no added advantage in rushing through with the applications, advising to take the time to ensure its properly filled and completed. 

The minister also called on persons who do not meet the eligibility criteria to refrain from applying. He said that this would only serve to hinder the government's efforts to provide housing to those who are eligible.