Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib has said that, based on current estimates, the Thilamale’ bridge is expected to be connected to Villimale’ by the end of 2026.
Speaking on a PSM News programme, the minister confirmed that construction work is continuing, with progress observed in the Male’–Villimale’ connectivity segment of the project. He noted that development has progressed more slowly than anticipated due to challenges faced with contractors, adding that efforts are underway to resolve these issues and accelerate construction.
“The previous government extended the project duration by an additional 30 months while the project was ongoing, excluding additional funding. As a result, an additional USD 6.4 million would be spent during that period. That extension was granted for reasons not related to the state. Discussions are currently ongoing with the Indian government and contractors to speed up the process,” the minister said.
He added that the government is aiming to complete construction up to Villimale’ by the end of this year and to accelerate progress as Gulhifalhu becomes inhabited.
“We are seeking opportunities to accelerate development. The work will not stop. At the current pace, the entire project is expected to be completed by 2027,” the minister said.
At present, the Thilamale’ bridge project is approximately 70 percent complete.
As part of the project connecting four islands, columns and their upper structures have now been installed. A total of 263 piles have been allocated for the columns under this project.
Meanwhile, segment casting for the bridge deck is ongoing at the main construction site in Gulhifalhu. Of the planned 1,222 segments, around 500 have already been installed.
The bridge and causeway network spans a total length of 6.7 kilometres and will connect Malé, Villimale’, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.
The project, valued at USD 500 million, is being implemented with USD 100 million in grant assistance from the Indian government and USD 400 million under a line of credit. The Maldivian government is also contributing funding towards the initiative.