ACC approves India-backed housing project

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has allowed the government to proceed with a 500-unit housing project in Gaaf Dhaal atoll Thinadhoo and Male. Indian contractor OII will oversee the project.

The ACC had asked the government to halt the project on Thursday after receiving public complaints about the bidding process. Its investigation, however, found no acts of corruption and has approved the project.

The project is funded by a US$40 million loan provided by India’s EXIM Bank, which requires that the project is made open for Indian contractors only. Six Indian companies had submitted bids.

Under the project, housing units will be built at the Maafannu Boduge land plot, the former VTC land plot located on Alikilegefaanu Magu, and the land plot where debris is dumped.