Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has announced that investors are expressing interest in the Addu bridge project. The statement followed the Invest Maldives Forum held in Fuzhou, China, where investment opportunities of the Maldives were presented to Chinese investors.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Muththalib disclosed that several companies have expressed interest in the bridge project during the Invest Maldives Forum. Notably, he said that one company has already submitted a proposal for the project, and the relevant authorities are currently evaluating the proposal.
Additionally, Minister Muththalib emphasised the priority of conducting a feasibility study in conjunction with the design of the bridge. He assured that the government is committed to completing the study within 14 weeks and is engaged in preparations for the project. He also highlighted that the feasibility and design aspects of the bridge will be handed over shortly.
Furthermore, Minister Muththalib underscored the Invest Maldives Forum as a significant opportunity for major development initiatives in the Maldives. He also mentioned the government's dedication to identifying capable companies for construction projects in the country.
During the forum presentation, various projects, including the Addu bridge project, were showcased to attract major Chinese investors. The construction of the bridge is expected to generate numerous economic opportunities in the region, positioning Addu City as an economic hub. The proposed 14-15km bridge with causeways is anticipated to bring substantial economic benefits and enhance administrative management of the islands, presenting an environmentally friendly investment opportunity for interested parties.
The Invest Maldives Forum is aimed to disseminate information on investment opportunities in the Maldives and witnessed the participation of over 300 investors.
President Dr. Muizzu, reiterating his commitment, announced that he will oversee the handover of the technical and detailed feasibility and design work for the bridge project. He said that the step is expected to expedite the selection of a contractor and the completion of all necessary documentation for the handover of the project.
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 until this administration.