Chinese Firm to Expand Addu Link Road into Four-Lane Modern Highway

The Maldivian government has awarded the redevelopment of the Addu Link Road to Rotime Engineering and Technology Co Limited, a firm based in Hong Kong. The project aims to upgrade the critical transit artery to modern standards to improve safety and traffic flow in the south. Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr. Abdulla Muththalib signed the agreement alongside Rotime Engineering and Technology Managing Director Zhou Weidong. The contract focuses on a 12.3-kilometre stretch of the road, extending from the Detour Bridge to Hithadhoo Stadium, which will be widened to four lanes. To minimize disruption for commuters and residents, Minister Dr. Muththalib confirmed that the redevelopment will proceed without closing the entire road. This ensures that essential connectivity within Addu City remains intact throughout the construction phase. The project transitions to the Chinese firm after the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development removed the scope of work from the Road Development Corporation. Preparations are already underway, with heavy machinery transported to Addu City and preliminary clearing work having commenced earlier this year. Since opening in 2003, the Addu Link Road has undergone periodic repairs, but local residents maintain that the infrastructure has deteriorated significantly. The road's poor condition has been linked to a history of dangerous accidents, including several fatal incidents that have caused deep distress within the community. By expanding the road to four lanes and implementing modern engineering standards, the government intends to address these long-standing safety concerns and provide a more reliable transport network for the residents of the southernmost atoll.