The Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure has announced that The Addu Hankede Bridge will officially open for public transport this Saturday, The 1.4-kilometre bridge, which connects Addu City’s Hitadhoo to Maradhoo, is expected to significantly improve transportation in the city.

Construction of the bridge began in October 2021 and was carried out under the Indian Line of Credit. The project, valued at MVR 1.19 billion, also includes road development in Addu City. The bridge will accommodate four lanes, enhancing traffic flow between key areas in the city.

The project was handed over to the Maldivian Government in August 2024 by Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar during his visit to Addu City. The opening was delayed due to additional technical surveys, but the Ministry confirmed that the bridge is now ready for use.

With the opening of the Hankede Bridge, the Link Road currently used across Hankede will be closed to public traffic. The bridge is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the region.

The Hankede Bridge is also a key component of the Hankede Integrated Tourism Development Project, one of the largest tourism initiatives in Addu City. The project aims to develop 1,041 hotel rooms, 64 serviced apartments, and 7 beach villas, along with a range of accommodation options, including grand, deluxe, and boutique hotels. The development is expected to boost tourism in the area and further enhance Addu City’s appeal as a tourist destination.