Thilamale’ Bridge — Economic Prosperity or Irreversible Environmental Damage?

The Thilamale’ Bridge project, considered a significant infrastructure undertaking by the government, has sparked a debate between promises of economic prosperity and concerns raised by environmentalists. With an estimated cost of USD 500 million, the project is being funded through a credit facility of USD 400 million from the Indian Exim Bank, supplemented by a USD 100 million grant from the government of India.

Vilimale’ reef damage

Construction is being carried out by Afcons Infrastructure Limited, and progress is on track according to the established timeline. The bridge, spanning 6.7 kilometres, aims to enhance transportation and connectivity in the Maldives, with completion of the Male’ City-Vilimale’ link expected by July 2023, followed by the Thilafushi-Gulhifalhu connection in December 2023. However, the project has encountered obstacles along the way. Afcons Infrastructure was fined MVR 69 million for damaging the Vilimale’ reef during construction when a self-elevating platform caused the reef to be wrecked and injured three workers. Investigations are ongoing, and the fine is pending payment.

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Additionally, a part of the crane broke off and fell into the Vilimale’ sea, prompting investigations to determine the cause and remove the fallen component. Despite these incidents, project officials assure that productivity will not be significantly affected due to backup plans in place.

Afcons workers accommodation fire & workers strike

In a separate incident, a fire at Afcons Infrastructure’s accommodation block in Gulhifalhu resulted in injuries to 76 workers and the unfortunate death of a missing worker. Forensic examinations are being conducted to determine the cause of the fire, and foreign forensic investigators have been dispatched to investigate recent fire incidents in the Maldives to ascertain any premeditation involved. Following the fire, a demonstration was launched by workers on Saturday morning. Workers are reportedly unhappy about irregular payment of wages. Police received reports of disturbance caused by Afcons’ workers and are present at the scene.

Afcons parent company sold

The parent company of Afcons Infrastructure, Shapoorji Pallonji Group, is considering selling Afcons and its assets, including the Thilamale’ bridge project, as part of its efforts to address financial challenges and repay debts.

Environmental concerns

Amidst these developments, environmental concerns have arisen, leading to the #SaveVillimale campaign. Residents of Villimalé fear that the bridge project will harm their island’s ecosystem and way of life. The campaign has gained traction and attracted international attention, with protesters staging demonstrations and obstructing the construction site.

Economic benefits the gov’t promises from the project

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the Thilamalé Bridge and the high-speed ferry network will boost trade, and social connections, and improve livelihoods in the Maldives. Trial runs for the ferry network have begun in Boduthiladhunmathi, while international cargo services are now operational at regional ports. The Thilamalé Bridge, the country’s biggest infrastructure project, is currently under construction. These initiatives aim to enhance every aspect of life and revive the Maldives’ shipping industry.

As the Thilamale’ Bridge project moves forward, it remains to be seen how the concerns of environmentalists will be addressed and whether the promised economic benefits will be realized.