Detailed Design of Thila-Male' Bridge Yet to Finish

The government stated that Afcons Infrastructure, the company assigned to construct the Thilamale' Bridge connecting Male', Villimale', Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi, is working on the detailed design of the bridge.

The government contracted the project to Afcons on August 26, 2021. Under the contract, the company must finish the project within 36 months. However, it seems this will be highly unlikely as work on the bridge is yet to begin.

The development of the bridge is financed by the Indian government. India has extended grant assistance of USD 100 million and a further loan of USD 400 million from India’s EXIM bank.

During the press conference that was held yesterday at the President's Office, a reporter asked as to why the President and Vice president did not take part in the project agreement signing ceremony. While speaking at the press conference, the Spokesperson of the President’s Office, Mabrook Azeez stated that the work on the project is yet to begin.

Mabrook also stated that preparations are ongoing to mobilize the project. In this regard, the contractor, India's Afcons Infrastructure is working on completing the detailed design of the bridge. The design work is expected to be completed within three months after which the practical work of the project will begin. He also stated that a detailed schedule also needs to be made as the work commences.

Mabrook also stated that after completing the necessary detail construction of the bridge will start in December or early January.

Although a large percentage of the project will be completed in 2023, it is unlikely that industrial island Thilafushi can be linked and accessed via the bridge in 2023. However, the completed parts of the project will be opened in 2023.