The government has begun a major redevelopment of Boduthakurufaanu Magu, a principal artery in the capital city of Malé that underpins the daily movement of government officials, business operators, and ferry commuters. The initiative, which commenced today, will transform the northern stretch of the road into a four-lane carriageway, marking a significant step in the government’s broader urban renewal strategy.
The section under construction spans approximately 830 metres, running from the Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal to the Fish Market. This corridor, lined with government offices, banks, private businesses, and key ferry terminals, has long served as one of the capital’s most heavily trafficked zones. On 27 February, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced plans to upgrade the road to contemporary standards. The contract for the project was awarded to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) on 9 April.
Plans call for full asphalting and expansion to two lanes in each direction. To accommodate the widened carriageway, the inner quay wall in the area will be extended. The development has been structured into three distinct phases, allowing for systematic execution across the northern segment.
Valued at USD 9.37 million, the MTCC-led project is scheduled for completion within fifteen months. It forms part of a wider government programme to modernise all major roads in Malé and Vilimalé, a scheme largely financed through grant aid from the Chinese government. A feasibility study for the broader initiative was completed earlier this year, laying the groundwork for its operational rollout.
Traffic management measures have been introduced in tandem with the start of construction. From 18 August to 13 October, one side of Boduthakurufaanu Magu, from the Travellers’ Market to the official Izzuddin Jetty, will be closed to vehicular traffic. The harbour-facing side of the road will also be inaccessible, with additional restrictions imposed around the Fish Market during peak hours.
MTCC has completed the required Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), acknowledging the road’s essential role in daily urban mobility. The modernisation is expected to alleviate congestion and enhance infrastructure resilience in one of Malé’s most strategically significant districts.