President Muizzu Voices Concern Over Thilamale Bridge Delays Despite Government Support

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed serious concern over the repeated delays in completing the Thilamale Bridge, stating that the contractor has failed to meet multiple deadlines despite receiving full government cooperation. Speaking at a recent press conference, the President revealed that the contractor is once again seeking extensions. He emphasized that while the administration has provided all necessary facilitation to accelerate the project, progress remains unsatisfactory. "The government is doing everything it can to facilitate completion," President Muizzu stated. "We have previously granted extensions and set deadlines, but these have not been met." The ambitious infrastructure project was originally slated for completion before the handover of the previous administration. With a total estimated cost of USD 500 million, the project is currently 71.60 per cent complete. The financing structure includes a USD 100 million grant and a USD 400 million line of credit from the Government of India, supplemented by funding from the Maldivian government. Current technical updates indicate that the casting and installation of bridge deck segments are underway. Of the 1,222 required segments, 84 per cent have been cast, though only 54 per cent have been installed. Simultaneously, work continues on the road networks, revetments, and culvert installations in Thilafushi. Once finished, the 6.7-kilometre network of bridges and causeways will provide a critical transport link connecting the capital, Malé, with Villingili, Gulhifalhu, and the industrial hub of Thilafushi. To date, expenditure on the project has already exceeded USD 100 million over the 30-month construction window.