A major step has been taken toward improving connectivity in Addu City, the southernmost urban hub of the Maldives, as the Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure has signed an agreement with China’s TYLin International Engineering Consulting Company Limited. This collaboration marks the beginning of technical groundwork for the highly anticipated bridge linking the islands of Hithadhoo and Hulhumeedhoo.
The contract, valued at USD 1,025,000, tasks TYLin with conducting comprehensive surveys, preparing a feasibility study, and developing detailed engineering designs and technical documentation. These preparatory works are crucial to facilitating the tendering process for actual bridge construction. TYLin is a globally recognized engineering consultancy firm with an extensive portfolio of transport infrastructure projects across Asia, the Middle East, and other regions.
The agreement was formalized in a signing ceremony held on Sunday. Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib represented the Maldives government, while the Chinese firm was represented by Mr. Chen Xiaohu, President of TYLin’s Chinese branch.
Minister Muththalib highlighted the importance of this consultancy phase in ensuring a sustainable and economically viable solution for linking the two islands. He noted that the study will evaluate multiple transport infrastructure models, including a sea-crossing bridge, floating bridge, and even a transit train system, to determine the most cost-effective and technically sound option for Addu City.
According to the Minister, the presence of professionally designed technical drawings and feasibility assessments will be instrumental in securing both funding and suitable contractors for the next phase. “With this level of planning, we expect to move more efficiently toward implementation once the most appropriate design is confirmed,” he stated.
This is not the first attempt at conducting such a study. The survey was initially awarded to an Egyptian company in 2023, under a broader scope that included not only consultancy but also financing and construction. However, that company failed to meet financial obligations required to proceed with the project. As a result, the Ministry took a more strategic route by separating the consultancy work and reassigning it to a firm solely focused on delivering professional design and feasibility services.
Minister Muththalib affirmed that the reassignment was done in alignment with the procurement regulations set forth by the Ministry of Finance and Planning. He also stressed the importance of public engagement throughout the process, assuring that community input will be sought to ensure the bridge project reflects the aspirations and needs of Addu City residents.
The consultancy work will be completed in three phases over a six-month period. Once finalized, the study will serve as the blueprint for the potential construction of one of the largest inter-island transportation projects in the Maldives. The improved connectivity between Hithadhoo and Hulhumeedhoo is expected to bring significant socio-economic benefits, enhancing mobility, trade, tourism, and overall quality of life in the region.
As Addu City continues to position itself as a strategic destination in the Maldives, the planned bridge project, backed by a reputable international partner demonstrates the government’s commitment to long-term infrastructure development that supports both local communities and tourism growth.
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