Govt projects face delays over fuel costs and supply issues
He added that projects involving high fuel use, such as land reclamation and harbour development, have also been impacted.
Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib has stated that several government infrastructure projects will face delays due to rising fuel costs and disruptions in the supply of construction materials linked to the situation in the Middle East.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the Minister said the current conditions have affected the availability and cost of materials required for major projects. He added that projects involving high fuel use, such as land reclamation and harbour development, have also been impacted.
Dr Muththalib said the government’s priority is to maintain the delivery of public services, with infrastructure work continuing alongside these efforts.
As a result, timelines for projects including the Thilamalé Bridge and land reclamation works will be revised.
On the bridge project, the Minister said the government has decided to amend the agreement with the contractor to avoid additional penalties linked to delays. The estimated completion date has been moved to late 2027.
He stated that stopping the project would not be practical and that the government will continue to support the contractor to complete the work.
Dr Muththalib said changing the contractor at this stage would lead to further costs and delays.
On land reclamation, he said more than half of the Ras Malé project has been completed. The timeline for the remaining work is expected to be adjusted due to current conditions. He added that the reclaimed areas are expected to be ready in time for planned housing developments.
“Our goal is to ensure that work continues and is completed as soon as possible. However, it is no longer feasible to meet the original timelines,” he said.
The Minister stated that projects will proceed with revised schedules rather than being cancelled, with a focus on managing costs.
“These factors are beyond our control. The government is prioritising the provision of services. Under these circumstances, changes to project timelines are unavoidable,” he said.
President Mohamed Muizzu has also raised concerns over the pace of the bridge project in recent remarks.
