As part of the initiative to reduce traffic, there is a proposal to implement a toll fee for bridge travelers, a plan highlighted during the ‘Male’ Fehi’ program inauguration, which focuses on addressing the city’s dense population issues.
The Lazing Wanderer
The Sinamale’ Bridge, connecting Hulhumale’, Male’, and Hulhule’, stands as one of the most significant advancements in the Maldives' transportation sector in recent years. This bridge has revolutionized daily commutes, reducing the dependence on sea transportation that previously dictated travel between these three locations. Prior to its construction, commuting to schools and workplaces was a more cumbersome task, a burden alleviated by the bridge’s development.
While the Sinamale’ Bridge was anticipated to enhance connectivity, it has also become one of the most congested areas, particularly during peak hours. Traffic bottlenecks are common at 8 AM and 2 PM when people are heading to or leaving work, causing delays and lateness. To address this, the government is considering effective management strategies for key traffic points, including the bridge and associated highways. As part of this initiative, there is a proposal to implement a toll fee for bridge travelers, a plan highlighted during the ‘Male’ Fehi’ program inauguration, which focuses on addressing the city’s dense population issues.
The idea of charging a toll fee is not new. It was discussed during the bridge's construction by the Chinese contractor, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), under former President Abdulla Yameen’s administration. These discussions aimed to create a vision to mitigate traffic congestion through a toll system, ensuring smoother vehicle movement across the bridge.
However, the proposal to introduce a toll has sparked mixed feelings among the public. Some view it as a necessary step to manage congestion and fund maintenance, while others see it as an additional financial burden on daily commuters. This debate continues as the government seeks a balanced solution that addresses traffic concerns without imposing undue hardship on the population.
