The ambitious project to build the first water theme park and a six-storey leisure hotel in Hulhumalé has faced numerous setbacks and legal challenges, resulting in its current state of suspension. Originally announced by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) in 2017, the project was awarded to Waterfront Hotel and Leisure Company with an estimated investment of USD 25 million (approximately MVR 385.5 million).
Initial Vision and Promising Start
The Hulhumalé water theme park was envisioned as a transformative addition to the city’s infrastructure, aligning with the President Yameen’s vision to develop Hulhumalé as a youth-friendly city and a centre for urban tourism. Planned attractions included various water slides for adults and children, kids’ pools, bumper boats, water houses, water rollers, water gyros, aqua loops, a fountain square, and a 50-room, six-storey hotel. The project was expected to not only provide recreational facilities but also stimulate economic activity and create job opportunities, making Hulhumalé a vibrant hub for residents and tourists alike.
Delays and Suspension
Despite the promising start, the project encountered significant delays. Initially slated for completion by the end of 2018, substantial portions of the development remained unfinished even by 2020. HDC attributed the delays to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, though the project had already fallen behind schedule before the pandemic began.
Termination of Agreement and Legal Battles
In August 2022, HDC terminated the agreement with Waterfront Hotel and Leisure Company due to inadequate progress and failure to continue work within the allotted time frame. The termination notice included a directive for the company to hand over the property within 30 days. In response, Waterfront Hotel and Leisure Company filed a civil suit seeking an interim order to delay compliance with HDC’s notice, arguing that the corporation’s actions could cause irreparable damage to the company. However, the Civil Court ruled against issuing a stay order, stating that the company had not demonstrated sufficient cause.
Corruption Allegations and Investigations
The project has also been under scrutiny by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) due to alleged discrepancies in the awarding process and financial management. Concerns include the funds allocated for hotel construction exceeding permissible limits and issues regarding land rent decisions. These allegations have added another layer of complexity to the already troubled project.
Impact on the Community and Future Prospects
The completion of the Hulhumalé water theme park holds significant potential benefits for the local community and the broader Maldivian tourism industry. Once completed, the park could enhance recreational options for residents, attract tourists, and boost the local economy. However, the ongoing legal and logistical challenges pose significant obstacles that need to be addressed before these benefits can be realized.
The project’s initial vision aimed to create a youth-friendly environment and establish Hulhumalé as a centre for urban tourism. Despite the current stalled state, there remains hope that with the resolution of legal issues and renewed efforts, the water theme park and hotel could eventually come to fruition, fulfilling its promise of transforming Hulhumalé’s landscape and providing a vibrant recreational and economic hub.
The stark contrast between the project’s ambitious vision and its present state underscores the complexities and challenges of large-scale developments. As stakeholders await resolution, the completion of the water theme park continues to be a hopeful yet elusive goal for Hulhumalé.
