President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the cancellation of the controversial Dhonfan land reclamation dredging project in Baa Atoll, responding directly to concerns raised by the local community.

The decision comes amid widespread apprehension about the project’s potential environmental impact on Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO-recognized Biosphere Reserve and major tourist attraction in the Maldives.

The original plan, signed during President Muizzu’s visit to Baa Atoll last August, proposed dredging 13 hectares of land from the Dhonfan lagoon.

Environmentalists and residents raised alarms that such activity could irreparably damage the fragile marine ecosystem in Hanifaru Bay.

In a social media post, President Muizzu emphasized his administration’s commitment to governance that prioritizes public opinion, stating he would not pursue any island-level initiative lacking community consent.

He also confirmed that while a land reclamation project may still be considered at the request of Dhonfan residents, the specific dredging plan will no longer move forward.

President Muizzu further assured that the relevant authorities would formally notify the Dhonfan Island Council of the decision later on Tuesday.

Adding to the clarification, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, confirmed via social media that while the dredging project has been halted, the government remains committed to addressing the island’s harbour improvements and shore protection needs.

The reversal represents a notable win for community advocacy and environmental protection, underscoring a government responsive to citizens’ concerns, particularly regarding sensitive ecological zones.