Survey and assessment work has commenced as part of preparations for the detailed design phase of a project to upgrade roads in Malé and Vilimalé to modern standards.

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development said the project is being implemented through grant assistance from the Chinese government. As part of the initial phase, surveys of project sites and consultation meetings with relevant stakeholders will be conducted until 4 June.

The Ministry said the survey and assessment activities began on Tuesday and are required to support the development of detailed engineering designs for the project.

The Maldives and China signed a Letter of Exchange in October last year to begin the design phase of the road development initiative, which forms part of a USD 130 million grant assistance package agreed during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's State visit to China.

The project is expected to significantly enhance road infrastructure in the Greater Malé Region. Feasibility studies, survey and design work, as well as the procurement and awarding of construction contracts, will be carried out through procedures established under China's grant assistance framework.