Muththalib delivers discouraging response to MP Shahid’s inquiry regarding Addu Bridge project
3 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހޯމަ 17:06The Minister of Infrastructure has confirmed that design and feasibility studies for the Addu Bridge project are currently underway; however, he noted that the country's economic situation and current debt levels present significant challenges in securing loans for such a large-scale undertaking. During a visit to Addu in 2025, the President stated that the administration aims to officially commence physical work on the bridge by 2026.
Mohamed Shahid, Member of Parliament for the Hulhudhoo constituency | Majilis
Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has provided a discouraging response to an inquiry by Hulhudhoo MP Mohamed Shahid regarding the Addu Bridge project.
Minister Muththalib attended Monday's parliamentary sitting to respond to inquiries submitted by Mauroof Zakir, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.
During a parliamentary sitting, Hulhudhoo MP Mohamed Shahid noted that the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure has formally requested the Hulhudhoo Council to allocate land for the establishment of a project work site. Highlighting that the bridge project represents a significant aspiration for the people of Addu City, the lawmaker requested a progress update on the initiative.
However, the Minister responded that the project cannot proceed during this period of economic hardship. He clarified that the instruction to identify the work site was intended to ensure all necessary documentation is finalized and ready in the meantime.
To compensate for the ongoing delays, we are prioritizing the swift completion of all design and documentation phases. Our objective is to finalize these essential preparations as quickly as possible to ensure the project commences without further setback, thereby securing the anticipated economic opportunities.Dr. Abdulla Muththalib
The Minister stated that the Addu Bridge project is currently in the detailed design, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and feasibility study stages. He further noted that securing loans for a project of such magnitude remains a challenge, given the current state of the Maldives' economy and national debt.
During his visit to Addu City on November 5, 2025, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu met with the residents of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo, announcing that a Chinese firm has been awarded a $1 million contract for the design and technical consultancy of the bridge project.
The President stated that the firm is tasked with completing the work within six months and presenting three distinct design options to the government. During the visit, he further emphasized that the administration aims to commence physical construction of the bridge in 2026.
