Work on Tsunami reconstruction program to be launched soon

Male: Planning Ministry has revealed that the contract agreement to initiate the construction of 59 houses to be constructed in Vilufhushi of Thaa Atoll as part of the tsunami reconstruction program has been signed.

Planning Ministry reveals that the ceremony was signed at Planning and National Development Center. The Agreement on behalf of Housing and Infra Structure Redevelopment was signed by Deputy Director Anwar Ali. The agreement on behalf of the contractor was signed by Ahmed Shafeeu Managing Director of the joint venture company Nalahiya Galant and Mesco Group.

The project is designed by Housing and Infrastructure Development. According to Planning Ministry as per the contract agreement, the contract period for the construction of 59 houses is 10 months and the project is due to commence on the 3 of March 2008.

Planning Ministry informs the project is funded by the government of Maldives. According to the Ministry the total cost of construction of 59 houses is US $ 3.3 Million.

According to Vilufushi Island Office the construction of 250 houses under the funding of American Red Cross is underway. Island Office reveals that while some houses are being roofed other houses require plastering and paint work. According to Island Chief Sulaiman Habeeb most of the houses are nearing completion.

The most devastated island in Maldives due to tsunami of 2004 is Vilufushi. Vilufushi islanders are currently living in Burunee of Thaa Atoll in temporary shelters provided by the government.