Malé and Villimalé have been physically linked under the Thilamalé Bridge project after the final structural segment connecting the two islands was successfully completed, marking a major milestone in one of the Maldives’ largest infrastructure projects.
Indian contractor Afcons Infrastructure has completed the main bridge structure between Malé and Villimalé. The project will now move into finishing works, including the installation of safety railings and lighting systems, before the bridge can be opened to traffic.
The wider 6.7-kilometre Greater Malé Connectivity Project is designed to connect Malé, Villimalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi through a network of bridges, causeways and roads. Work is progressing simultaneously across the project, including connecting roads in Gulhifalhu and revetment works in Thilafushi.
The milestone comes amid strengthened Maldives-India relations under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President Muizzu’s administration has prioritised accelerating the project and has worked closely with Prime Minister Modi’s government and the contractor to advance construction.
The USD 500 million project is primarily financed by India through a USD 100 million grant and a USD 400 million Line of Credit, alongside contributions from the Maldivian government.
The government considers the Thilamalé Bridge a strategically important project for Greater Malé and the wider national economy, particularly because it will provide direct road connectivity to the developing commercial and industrial areas of Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.
The administration is working towards completing the entire project by the end of 2027.
