In anticipation of grand celebrations marking the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day, the Ministry of Transport has announced temporary restrictions on land vehicle movement across parts of Greater Malé from July 25 to 27. The measure is aimed at ensuring public safety, minimizing congestion, and supporting security operations during the national festivities.
According to the Ministry, the vehicle restrictions will apply during specific time slots over the three-day period and primarily affect heavy vehicles, with a full vehicle ban scheduled on Independence Day itself.
Details of the restrictions are as follows:
- July 25:
Movement of heavy vehicles in the following categories will be prohibited from 13:00 to 18:00:- Category C0: Light cargo vehicles
- Category C2: Medium cargo vehicles
- Category D: Heavy cargo vehicles
- Category E: Special-purpose vehicles
- Category V: Towed vehicles (trailers, etc.)
- July 26 (Independence Day):
All types of land vehicles will be banned from operating between 15:00 and 18:30, including motorcycles, cars, taxis, and heavy vehicles. - July 27:
The same heavy vehicle categories—C0, C2, D, E, and V—will be restricted from 18:00 to 00:00.
The Ministry clarified that vehicles operated by security forces, ambulance services, and public transport buses will be exempted from the ban and permitted to operate during the restricted hours.
Authorities have warned that violators will face penalties under Articles 67 and 68 of the Land Transport Act, which provide for fines and possible further legal action for non-compliance with official transport directives.
The government has urged the public to extend full cooperation to ensure a smooth and secure environment for the Independence Day activities, which are expected to draw large crowds and feature prominent state functions.
