Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer has revealed USD 26.6 million has been allocated in the State Budget for 2020 to develop bridges connecting the islands of Male' region.
Minister Ameer said the budget includes part of the total finances for the bridge that connects the islands of Male', Vilimale, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi, which is an important pledge of the administration. The minister further said it is currently conducting necessary research on the development of the bridge.
The government had estimated the project to cost USD 488 million to connect the entire Male' region via bridges. The development of bridges is expected to generate more economic opportunities and better transport to the region. The bridges are also estimated to make movement of goods from storage facilities in Thilafushi considerably easier.
Currently, the islands of Male', Hulhule' and Hulhumale' are connected by a bridge and a highway.