President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said delays in the completion of the Thilamale Bridge project remain a major concern, despite the government providing full support to the contractor.
Speaking at a press conference, the president noted that the contractor has missed several deadlines set for the project and is now seeking further extensions. He said the government has extended all necessary cooperation to accelerate the work, but progress has not been satisfactory.
“The government is doing everything it can to facilitate completion. We have previously granted extensions and set deadlines, but these have not been met,” President Muizzu said.
The Thilamale Bridge project was initially scheduled for completion before the previous administration left office. However, the deadline was not met, and the contractor subsequently requested additional time. The project is being carried out over a 30-month period, with expenditure exceeding USD 100 million during this timeframe.
According to the latest update, the project is currently 71.60 per cent complete.
Work underway includes casting and installation of bridge deck segments. Of the 1,222 segments required, 84 per cent have been cast, while 54 per cent have been installed.
Construction of the road network connecting the bridge is also in progress. Revetment works and culvert installation are ongoing in Thilafushi. The overall project, including bridges and causeways, spans 6.7 kilometres and is designed to connect Malé with Villingili, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.
The total cost of the project is estimated at USD 500 million. It is being financed through a USD 100 million grant and a USD 400 million line of credit from the Government of India, with additional funding from the Government of Maldives.