Government Launches State-Run Electric Taxi Service in Vilimalé on April 2

The government will expand its new state-run taxi service to Vilimalé, deploying five dedicated electric vehicles to serve the island community. The 24-hour service, launching on April 2, aims to modernize urban transit and standardize accessibility across the capital region. Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, confirmed the expansion during a foundation-laying ceremony for a Bank of Maldives-financed housing project. He stated the initiative will streamline the hailing process for residents and elevate the quality of regional public transport. "When the Malé taxi line service, which the government is presently preparing to inaugurate, officially commences, five of these designated taxis will be deployed to this island to serve its residents," Minister Muththalib said. He emphasized the environmental benefits of the fully electric fleet. "Because these vehicles are fully electric, there is absolutely no doubt that they will play an instrumental role in preserving the local environment, enhancing the convenience of our citizens, and fostering the continued development of the island." The service will operate via a dedicated mobile application. The broader fleet for the capital region will consist of 150 environmentally friendly vehicles from the Changan Automobile brand, available in three sizes. While 60 vehicles have already arrived in Malé, the remaining 90 are expected by March 29. The administration expressed confidence that the network will bring a transformative shift to the nation's public transportation sector.