Government Pledges Full Resolution of Greater Male’ Transport Crisis by 2028

The Maldivian government has committed to resolving the chronic transport challenges facing the Greater Male’ area by 2028. Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed announced the target during the official launch of the Male’ Taxi Line services in Villimale’. Under the direction of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, various ministries are collaborating to identify and address systemic failures in the capital's infrastructure. Minister Saeed identified parking shortages, vehicle registration hurdles, and persistent traffic congestion as the primary obstacles. The government intends to present a comprehensive transport master plan to the public in the near future to outline the specific steps toward these goals. The introduction of the Male’ Taxi Line in Villimale’ is framed as a key milestone in fulfilling presidential promises to the community. The Minister highlighted that the current administration has prioritized Villimale’ more than any previous government, citing concurrent investments in housing and healthcare facilities alongside transport improvements. Echoing these sentiments, Villimale’ Member of Parliament Mohamed Ismail stated that the area had been overlooked by previous administrations for over 15 years. He noted that President Muizzu has prioritized the delivery of essential services to the island since the first day of his term. The new taxi service aims to bridge the gap created by long-standing vehicle shortages in the region. According to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) Managing Director Ahmed Saudhee, the service will enhance local mobility and accessibility. Residents can now book rides via a dedicated mobile application or a telephone hotline. To ensure comprehensive coverage, MTCC confirmed that the existing bus network in Villimale’ will remain fully operational. The taxi service is designed to complement the bus routes, providing last-mile connectivity to areas that are currently inaccessible by larger vehicles. The Male’ Taxi Line, which began operations in Male’ and Hulhumale’ on April 2, now operates as a 24-hour service to meet the demands of the urban population.