President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has vowed to address any challenges hindering the development of Thilamale' Bridge, underscoring the goal of its completion as per the schedule.
Speaking about the project, President-elect Muizzu conveyed his active efforts in gathering information crucial for the transition process of the government. He expressed his commitment to identifying and addressing the factors affecting the pace of the project, whether they stem from contractual, consulting, or financial issues.
Additionally, President-elect Muizzu highlighted the need to expand the Thilamale' Bridge by incorporating additional changes. He outlined plans for adjustments, including linking the bridge to Giraavaru Falhu once land reclamation and allocation are completed. He also indicated his intention to engage with the government of India to address any challenges hindering the project.
Thilamale’ Bridge is being developed under the Greater Male’ Connectivity Project (GMCP) and is contracted to Indian-based Afcons Infrastructure Limited. The GMCP is the single-largest infrastructure project in the Maldives and 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.
The project was commissioned in August 2022. It consists of three bridges, a causeway, and a road network spanning over 6.7km. It will also see the development of interchange points and parking zones at each connection stop. The government aims to complete the project in 2024.