President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Sunday announced that 6,200 plots of  land would be awarded under 'Binveriya' housing scheme, and allotments for the beneficiaries of the would commence in August.

This announcement was made during the ceremony held to officially inaugurate the land reclamation project on Gulhifalhu Island.

Previously, it was stated that 5,000 plots would be awarded, but the new total announced by the President adds another 1,200 to it.

According to the President, the administration would begin issuing land plots to recipients of the Binveriya housing scheme in August after reviewing the preliminary list of beneficiaries and addressing any complaints or inquiries. He added that they intend to continue issuing land plots until all eligible beneficiaries have received one, per the list of recipients.

Speaking at the function, the President characterised the Gulhifalhu land reclamation project as a major development initiative with significant positive implications for the entire country, despite its location in the Malé region. He stated that the project would transform the Malé region and that its most notable impact would be its positive effect on the housing situation in the area.

In addition to providing land for the Binveriya housing scheme, the 150-hectare land reclamation project would also supporting the development of the Gulhifalhu port.

As per the government’s plan for Binveriyaa scheme, 2,000 housing plots will be allocated from Gulhifalhu, another 2,000 will from Giraavarufalhu and 2,200 from Hulhumale’.

President Solih has also announced that the administration is exploring ways to increase the availability of land for residential purposes.

He added that the administration's goal of a "prosperous, safe Maldives" for the people is the driving force behind every agreement signed, ground broken, and initiative begun.

Highlighting that the Binveriya housing scheme is the most extensive housing initiative undertaken in the country to date the President said that it would have far-reaching positive implications. He also spoke about the potential economic benefits of relocating the Malé Commercial Harbour and constructing an international port at Gulhifalhu.

The administration commissioned Boskalis Westminster Contracting Ltd. to undertake the Gulhifalhu land reclamation project, creating 150 hectares of land for the Binveriya housing scheme and the Gulhifalhu Port project.