Muththalib blames bridge delays on contractor learning curve

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Abdulla Muththalib said on Tuesday that delays to the Thilamalé Bridge project are linked to the contractor’s limited experience in open sea bridge construction.

Speaking during a sitting of the People's Majlis, the Minister said Afcons Infrastructure, the company contracted for the project, is still adapting to the conditions involved in such work.

He made the remarks in response to a question from Mohamed Ibrahim, Member of Parliament for Galolhu North.

The Minister said the bridge project remains important for the development of the Greater Malé region and for addressing housing needs.

“Since the beginning, this government has worked with the contractor and the Indian government to complete the project as quickly as possible and to resolve the issues encountered,” he said.

Muththalib stated that work is continuing, but progress has been affected by the contractor’s lack of prior experience in similar marine conditions.

He said that constructing a bridge in open sea conditions requires specialised capability and that the contractor has needed time to adjust.

The Minister also said the previous administration’s completion deadline had been extended by 30 months under the current government, but the project remains unfinished.

“We are still working to complete the project by giving the contractor more time. If we fine the contractor and take action, the project will stop, and citizens will not benefit from that,” he said.

He added that the government continues discussions with the Indian government and the contractor, and said the bridge is expected to be ready for use by the end of 2027.