Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has revealed the construction of the foundation of the Thilamale’ Bridge is expected to begin in July.
Thilamale’ Bridge is being developed under the Greater Male’ Connectivity Project (GMCP), contracted to Indian-based Afcons Infrastructure Limited. The project scope includes the construction of three navigation bridges, viaducts, and on-grade roads, linking Male’, Villimale’, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu.
Speaking to PSM News, Project Manager of GMCP Mohamed Jinan said surveys and site studies are currently ongoing before the start of construction. As such, he noted the platforms currently established along the proposed route of the bridge are part of the geotechnical surveys conducted to assess ground conditions. He stated construction of the foundation will begin around July, noting construction will begin from the link near Male’.
The jackup barge used for hydrographic and geotechnical surveys of the project arrived in the Maldives last month. The planning ministry noted the barge will also be used during the construction of the bridge, for the operation of certain equipment and machinery.
The GMCP is the single-largest infrastructure project in the Maldives and is expected to become a national economic engine, and a lifeline connecting Male' to Villimale', Gulhifalhu, and the Thilafushi Industrial Zone. The project is funded through a USD 400 million line of credit from Indian Exim Bank and by a USD 100 million grant from the Government of India.