President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed concern over delays in the Thilamalé Bridge project, stating that progress has fallen short of expectations despite efforts by the Government.

The project, which will connect Malé, Villimalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi, is being financed through a line of credit from the Export-Import Bank of India. This includes an initial USD 400 million secured under the previous administration, with a further USD 100 million later added to support completion.

Delays in the project have drawn increasing attention, with concerns that work has not progressed in line with earlier timelines. Initial plans had targeted completion of the Malé–Villimalé link by the end of this year, followed by the remaining connections to Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi before the end of 2027.

Speaking at a press briefing at the President’s Office on Monday, President Dr Muizzu said the pace of work remains unsatisfactory.

“In reality, the progress is very slow. However, the Government is doing everything required from its side. We have carefully considered and approved requests for extensions where necessary,” he said.

The President noted that a completion timeline had been outlined in the Presidential Address 2025, but the project has not advanced sufficiently to meet that target. He added that it was therefore not included in this year’s Presidential Address.

President Dr Muizzu further stated that while the project was previously expected to be completed in 2026, it is now projected to be finished in 2027.

He reaffirmed that completing the bridge remains a priority for the Government, expressing confidence that the project will be delivered and that all necessary measures will continue to be taken to expedite progress.