The Greater Malé Connectivity Project has achieved a major construction milestone following the completion of the final linking segment connecting Vilimalé and Gulhifalhu.
Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib announced the development on Friday, marking an important stage in the implementation of the Thilamalé Bridge project.
The minister acknowledged the contributions of Indian construction company Afcons Infrastructure, engineering consultancy Arup and the project team at the Ministry. He also expressed appreciation to the Government of India for its continued support.
Largest infrastructure project in Maldivian history
The Greater Malé Connectivity Project, commonly referred to as the Thilamalé Bridge, is designed to establish a direct transport connection between Malé, Vilimalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.
The development comprises approximately 6.74 kilometres of bridges and causeways, making it the largest infrastructure undertaking in the Maldives.
The project is financed through a USD 500 million funding package provided by India, consisting of grant assistance and a Line of Credit.
Once completed, the network is expected to improve connectivity between the capital and surrounding islands, supporting transport and accessibility across the Greater Malé region.
Construction progresses across bridge network
The latest milestone follows the completion of superstructure work on the Malé–Vilimalé section in August.
The connection between Vilimalé and Gulhifalhu represents another significant step towards establishing the planned network linking all four locations.
However, the completion of this section does not mean the entire bridge project is ready for public use, as construction work continues on the broader development.
President hopes for completion within a year
Following the announcement, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu expressed optimism that the complete bridge network connecting Malé, Vilimalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi could be finished within approximately one year.
The President’s remarks indicate the government’s expectation that the remaining works will progress towards completion during the coming year.
The Thilamalé Bridge remains one of the country’s most significant transport infrastructure investments, with the latest construction achievement bringing the project closer to its intended connectivity objectives.
