Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has revealed that the preliminary work for the Hulhumeedhoo bridge project has begun.
Addu consists of four islands with Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo particularly far apart from the rest of the islands. The residents were promised by previous governments that Addu would be developed into a city in the full sense of the word by connecting Hulhumeedhoo to the other islands with a bridge, but the project never commenced.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu pledged to build a bridge connecting Hulhumeedhoo to the rest of Addu City during his campaign. He assured his supporters that he would bring to reality the bridge project connecting Hithadhoo and Hulhumeedhoo. His administration has included the bridge project in the roadmap for his first 100 days in office and USD2 million has been allocated in the state budget for 2024 to commence the project.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Muththalib said the bridge project is one of the top priorities of the ministry, in accordance with the president's vision. He highlighted that the ministry has begun the preliminary work required to commence fieldwork, including hiring a consultant. He noted that such a huge project requires feasibility studies, research, and design work to be done before beginning the fieldwork, adding that public opinion should also be sought. He also said that the ministry will determine the timeline for the project once the preliminary work is completed. He added that the project will progress at a fast pace once a consultant is hired.
President Muizzu has outlined a comprehensive vision the development of Addu City. His strategic plan includes developing housing and increasing business and employment prospects. He has expressed his intention to create 6,000 new tourism beds and generate 10,000 fresh employment opportunities. Additionally, he pledged to establish a seaplane hub in Addu City, aimed at benefiting the southern region of the country.