Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has revealed that the two test piles have been completed under the Thilamale' Bridge development project. Test piling began in October and the erection of the marine test pile is in preparation for the installation of the permanent columns, according to the ministry.
Speaking to PSM News, the Project Manager at the planning ministry Mohamed Jinan said the piling for the permanent pillars will start in December. He said that work is underway to dredge the area needed for the bridge. He also said that some changes to be made to the bridge are currently underway.
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.