Ministry of National Planning and Infrastructure has revealed preparation to commence the project to develop the Greater Male' Connectivity Bridge is underway without interruptions.
The planning ministry said the reclamation of land from Gulhifalhu which is required for the project and the necessary surveys are currently ongoing. The survey component of the project was handed over to a foreign company on March 5 for a cost of USD 15 million. The component includes the surveying of 28 boreholes extracted from land and sea.
The Greater Male' Connectivity Bridge, which will connect Male', Villimale', Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu, is expected to be 6.7 kilometres long, with at least four lanes. The planning ministry had previously announced the project is conducted under a loan assistance from the government of India. The ministry said the project will be opened for tender in July after the survey is completed, adding the prequalification of bids will be conducted in India. The ministry had stated construction is expected to commence in September.
The bridge to connect Male', Villimale', Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi is aimed at facilitating the development of industry in the Greater Male' Region. The bridge will also provide convenience in transport for citizens living in Villimale'.