While the development of the bridge was revolutionary, it has recently been revealed by the Construction Minister, Dr Adbulla Muthalib that the Sinamale’ Bridge, which was completed in 2018 has not undergone any repairs or maintenance in the last three years.
SunOnline International
The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, or the Sinamale’ bridge was one of the most revolutionary transformations to happen to the Maldives’ transportation industry in recent years. The bridge that connects Male’ City to both Hulhule’ and Hulhumale’ made travel between the three locations more accessible as travellers no longer needed to take the sea-transportation. With this, the bridge became the main link connecting people from the airport to the city - later even connecting people to more affordable travel between the locations with the RTL bus services.
While the development of the bridge was revolutionary, it has recently been revealed by the Construction Minister, Dr Adbulla Muthalib that the Sinamale’ Bridge, which was completed in 2018 has not undergone any repairs or maintenance in the last three years. In addition to being a great solution to the transportation issues, the bridge also had the potential to bridge water security issues in Male’. This is accomplished through a pipe which was installed into the bridge over five years ago. The pipe which supplies water between the wards of the Male’ region, however, has not been in use since its installation.
To resolve this issue and upgrade the renovations, the Government has decided to make the water pipes operational, in addition to the current repair works being carried out by the Government. According to Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim, work is now underway to connect the pipe to the Maldives Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) in order to make the pump operational by the end of 2024. With this, the minister states that water security in Male’ will be further enhanced, as the pump will be able to provide additional water supply to the city.
Additionally, the Government has also established a new park located near the bridge to symbolize the friendly relations between the Maldives and China. In addition to showcasing the various stages of the development of the bridge, the park also has seating areas.
As the government now focuses on its maintenance and operational upgrades, including the activation of long-dormant water pipes, the bridge's impact will go beyond transportation, ensuring greater water security for Male'. These developments reinforce the bridge's role not only as a crucial infrastructure link but also as a vital part of the Maldives' future sustainability and growth.
