President Muizzu says the quality of Thilamalé Bridge will be high, despite his previous assertions that bridges built by India would lack quality
27 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ބުރާސްފަތި 09:27President Muizzu has assured that the government is working closely with India to ensure the successful completion of the Thilamalé Bridge project, emphasizing that high quality standards will be maintained throughout. To ensure rigorous oversight, a high-level committee has been established to monitor the progress, and the President noted that the same firm responsible for quality control on the Sinamalé Bridge is also supervising the construction of this project.
President Muizzu addresses the public on the Nation Chat program. | Presidents Office
Despite previously claiming that an Indian-built bridge would lack quality before assuming office, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has now stated that the Thilamalé Bridge will meet high quality standards.
Speaking on the state media program "Nation Chat," President Muizzu stated that during his initial meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister took the initiative to express his commitment to ensuring the successful completion of the Thilamalé Bridge project. The President further noted that a high-level committee was subsequently established to closely monitor the progress of the bridge project.
Highlighting his hands-on involvement and the high priority he accorded to the Sinamalé Bridge project during its construction, President Muizzu stated that he requested the Thilamalé Bridge project be managed with the same level of urgency. He further noted that following his discussions with Prime Minister Modi, the Indian government has also placed a renewed priority on the project.
President Muizzu stated that he hopes travel between Malé and Villingili will be possible in the near future.
Regarding the technicalities, I understand that the asphalt paving and overall completion of the bridge are linked to the project reaching Gulhifalhu, as the primary site is located there. Therefore, even if the connection between Malé and Villingili is established, it will not be ready for public use immediately. The bridge is expected to become operational only once the connection extends through to Thilafushi. However, I do not currently have the full details or the latest progress update on this.President Muizzu
President Muizzu noted that the quality of the Thilamalé Bridge is being overseen by the same company that supervised the construction of the Sinamalé Bridge, assuring that the quality of this bridge will also be up to standard.
The Thilamalé Bridge project was initiated during the administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The project was awarded to the Indian company, Afcons Infrastructure. At the time, the project faced significant criticism from the then-opposition, many of whom now hold senior positions in the current government.
