Ministry Announces Closure of Gulhifalhu-Thilafushi Channel for Thilamale' Bridge Construction

The Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure has announced the temporary closure of the Gulhifalhu-Thilafushi channel starting December 5 to facilitate the development of pillars for the Thilamale' Bridge.

The ministry confirmed that construction activities for the pillars are scheduled to begin on December 5. In light of this, the channel will remain closed until further notice, and seafarers are advised to avoid the area. Additionally, the public is urged to refrain from using routes through the Malé-Vilimale' and Gulhifalhu-Thilamale' channels, as they are also closed for ongoing bridge development.

According to the ministry, 45.82% of the Thilamale' Bridge project was completed as of October 15. The bridge, spanning 6.7 kilometers and connecting Malé, Villimalé, Thilafushi, and Gulhifalhu, has a budget exceeding USD 454 million. While the government aims for completion by late 2025 or early 2026, the official timeline sets the connection between Malé and Gulhifalhu for March 31, 2026, with full project completion by September 30, 2026.

The Thilamale’ Bridge is expected to be a transformative infrastructure project, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth in the region.