Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has begun preparations to vacate Bandeyri Koshi 1 ahead of redevelopment plans to provide housing for MNDF and police officers during their service.

In a statement, MNDF said it was sharing project details with current residents, listening to their concerns and working to find solutions before relocation begins.

The redevelopment will cover Bandeyri Koshi 1 and 2, which currently provide temporary accommodation for MNDF and police officers.

The project aims to build more apartments to house as many officers as possible during their service.

MNDF said the development would be carried out in phases to minimize disruption to existing residents. As Bandeyri Koshi 1 is the first phase, officers and police personnel currently living there will need to vacate their apartments.

Under the plan, residents of Bandeyri Koshi 1 will be relocated to newly developed apartments as the project progresses.

“When completed, the project will provide housing for a large number of MNDF and police officers in addition to those currently living in Bandeyri Koshi,” the statement said.

President and commander-in-chief of MNDF, Dr Mohamed Muizzu, announced plans for the housing project during the MNDF's 134th anniversary celebrations this year.

He said housing was a basic right of every Maldivian citizen and announced that a project covering the Bandeyri Koshi area would be launched to provide accommodation for MNDF and police officers.

The president has highlighted the need to improve welfare and benefits for MNDF and police personnel, noting that their service often requires them to spend extended periods away from their families.