The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has announced special traffic management measures in Malé during Ramadan, urging the public to be cautious amid expected congestion around mosques and commercial areas.

The measures aim to ensure smooth traffic flow and pedestrian safety throughout the fasting month.

Police have identified 22 mosques in the Greater Malé Region where traffic builds up during prayer times. Officers will be stationed near these locations 10 minutes before prayers begin and will remain until congestion clears. Authorities have advised residents to walk to nearby mosques whenever possible and, if using motorbikes, to park in designated areas to avoid obstructing traffic. Goods vehicles have also been instructed to refrain from operating during restricted hours, except for essential services.

Ahead of Ramadan, police have cleared roads, repainted traffic signs, and removed 433 abandoned two-wheelers and 33 four-wheelers from Malé’s streets. Inspector of Police Tholhath Ahmed stated that five key areas have been prioritised for traffic management, including marketplaces, mosques, major roads, bridges, and highways. Since mid-February, a dedicated police team has been monitoring the market area to regulate vehicle parking and prevent goods from being dumped in pedestrian zones.

A no-parking zone has been established in the market area from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. Authorities, in coordination with the city council, are enforcing parking regulations to keep pathways clear. Road closures near mosques will be implemented during prayer times, including Taraweeh and pre-dawn prayers, based on traffic conditions.

The police will also monitor key roads such as Hilaalee Magu, Sosun Magu, Fareedhee Magu, and Chaandhanee Magu, as well as major commercial areas and office hubs. Traffic flow on bridges and highways will be observed, particularly during peak commuting hours in the morning and evening. The MPS has urged the public to adhere to regulations, plan their travel accordingly, and cooperate with authorities to minimise disruptions during the holy month.