By Criss
In a groundbreaking development, the Maldives has begun construction on what is poised to become the world’s first floating city. This ambitious project, nestled in the Indian Ocean’s azure waters, is a testament to human ingenuity and a proactive response to the pressing issue of climate change.
Satellite Imagery Reveals Progress
Exclusive satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies has unveiled the current state of the Maldives Floating City. The images depict a series of modular floating platforms, which are part of a larger plan set to reach completion by 2027. This innovative “island city” is the result of a collaboration between the Maldivian government and the Dutch architectural firm Waterstudio.
A Visionary Solution for Rising Sea Levels
Located just a short boat ride from the capital, Male, the floating city emerges as a practical solution to the challenges faced by the Maldives, the world’s lowest-lying country. With an average elevation of merely five feet above sea level, the nation is at the forefront of the battle against rising sea levels.
First Residents to Arrive Within 14 Months
Despite initial delays due to political negotiations, the project’s construction is now moving forward at full speed. Koen Olthuis, the lead architect, has confirmed that the first residents are expected to move in within the next 14 months. The city will ultimately house around 20,000 people in 5,000 homes, all designed to face the sea.
Affordable Housing with a View
Starting at $250,000 USD, these family homes offer affordability without compromising on the view. The properties are being marketed not only to international buyers but also to local fishing families who have lived in the region for generations.
A Sustainable Master Plan
The master plan for the Maldives Floating City is a direct response to the threat of sea-level rise, which could render up to 80 percent of the Maldives uninhabitable by mid-century. The design features a hexagonal grid resembling brain coral, connected to barrier islands that serve as breakwaters.
A Sustainable and Innovative Potential Solution
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has praised the project for its sustainable approach, which avoids land reclamation and preserves the ocean’s coral reefs. He poignantly remarked, “In the Maldives, we cannot stop the waves, but we can rise with them.”
As the world watches, the Maldives Floating City stands as a beacon of hope and innovation, potentially setting a precedent for sustainable urbanization in the face of climate change.
