The schedules of public transport services in the Greater Male’ Region have been revised following the extension of curfew hours in the capital.
On February 2, Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) announced new measures to curb the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in the Maldives. As such, a vehicle curfew has been imposed from 2030hrs to 0430hrs, while a total curfew has been imposed from 2300hrs to 0430hrs.
Following the curfew extension, Maldives Police Service (MPS) has announced changes to the public transport service schedule in the Male’ area. Speaking at a press conference, Head of Traffic Management at MPS Superintendent of Police Hussain Sameer said buses between Male’ and Hulhumale’ will conduct its daily operations until 2230hrs. Sameer noted ferries operated between Male’ Villimale’ and Thilafushi will also operate until 2230hrs. He added every taxi centre has been issued 10 permits to conduct emergency trips during curfew hours.
MPS has provided special permits for essential service providers to operate during curfew hours. As such, water and cooking gas suppliers can use two 350-kg vehicles to provide its services during curfew hours. However, this permit can only be applied between 2030hrs and 2300hrs.
Further, MPS stated individuals going to the airport for departure can use taxi or public transport services during curfew hours, after showing the air ticket or passport. MPS said individuals on duty during curfew hours are required to carry their staff identification card when going out.