The first test pile of the Thilamale’ Bridge has been built.
The first test pile can be seen sticking out of the ocean surface and is an important step towards building the permanent pillars. The work to build the test piles began in October and workers have now moved on to building the second test pile.
Speaking to PSM News, the Project Manager at the Ministry of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Mohamed Jinan said the test piles are being built near Male’ City, Villimale’, and Gulhifalhu, and that the permanent pillars will be built afterward. He said the test piles will determine the final design of the pillars. The ministry stated that the project is in the final stages of commencing the construction of the permanent pillars.
Thilamale’ Bridge is being developed under the Greater Male’ Connectivity Project (GMCP), contracted to Indian-based Afcons Infrastructure Limited. Some challenges were faced due to bad weather, after a bridge platform ran aground on Villimale’ on August 16 which caused damage to the reef after its anchor became embedded in the sea floor. However, Afcons assured no delays will be caused due to the matter.
The planning ministry revealed Thilamale’ Bridge will be completed by the end of next year and connected to Thilafushi in 2024. The bridge consists of three bridges, a causeway, and a road network spanning over 6.7km. The project will also see the development of interchange points and parking zones at each connection stop.
The GMCP is the single-largest infrastructure project in the Maldives and is expected to become a national economic engine, and a lifeline connecting Male' to Villimale', Gulhifalhu, and the Thilafushi Industrial Zone. The project is funded through a USD400 million Line of Credit from the Indian Exim Bank and by a USD100 million grant from the government of India.