A reclaimed island in Emboodhoo lagoon has been designated as the picnic island for locals near Male'.
It is among President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's pledges for the first 100 days of administration to allocate a picnic island in the Male' region.
Among the islands being developed in the Emboodhoo lagoon by Thailand based Singha Estate, the 3.3 hectare island is located within a fifteen minute travel distance from capital Male'.
Speaking at a special ceremony held on Tuesday afternoon, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said Singha Estate will be developing the island with all modern features of a picnic island made available.
"Accommodation facilities to stay at the island with your families will be available, space to hold entertainment events will be available, areas and services especially designed for children will be available. We are aiming to open the island to public at the beginning of next year at the latest", said the President.
The president noted that the establishment of the picnic island would be the solution for several issues faced by the residents of Male'.
"Congestion of Male' city is the root of the problems we face today. It is the root of so many diseases. The reason for many social problems is the lack of adequate leisure space, leaving the residents without an outlet for their worries", said the President.
The president further noted that services such as water sports, barbecue areas and 'kids clubs' will be offered at the island, in addition to separate changing rooms for men and women.
The Planning Ministry unveiled the development vision of the island during the ceremony.
