Time zone MST (UTC+05:00) | Area code(s) 650, 20 | |
Dhidhdhoo (Dhivehi: ދިއްދޫ) is the capital of Haa Alif Atoll in the Maldives. It is an island-level administrative constituency governed by the Dhidhdhoo Island Council. The island lies on the north western tip of Thiladhunmathi Atoll and is separated from the Ihavandhippolhu Atoll by the deep Gallandhoo Kandu channel.
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Map of Dhidhdhoo, Maldives
Originally, the island was 52 hectares large. After a land reclamation project initiated in 2010, the total land area of the island is now approximately 85 hectares. The land was reclaimed to cater for the needs of the growing population and industries. Being the capital, Dhidhdhoo is home to the largest population and is the economic trade hub of Haa Alif Atoll.
History
Historically, the island was uninhabited and was under the administration of Utheemu Gadhuvaru, a royal house in Utheemu. The island was inhabited around 19th century when the people of Dhonakulhi left their island to escape from the invasion of pirates from Malabar.
During the administration of President Mohamed Amin Didi, Dhidhdhoo refused to take part in the 'Uthuru Gadubadu', an uprising of the people of the northern atolls against the Amin Didi regime.
Dhidhdhoo continued to serve its people and the people around. It is the centre of trade and services in the North Thiladhnnmathi.
Dhidhdhoo Council
Dhidhdhoo Council is the local government body responsible for the governance of the island Dhidhdhoo. The council was created in 2011, with the enactment of the Decentralization Bill, which saw the introduction of local governance to the country.
The majority of current councilors, elected in the country's second local council elections in 2014, is from the Progressive Party of Maldives.