News Desk
China Harbour Engineering Company has begun the initial design and survey work for the first phase of the Thilafushi port project, according to Maldives Ports Limited. The company was awarded the contract in February and has now launched geo‑technical assessments at the site.
MPL said the first surveys of the planned international and domestic quay walls have started ahead of the main construction phase. These surveys form part of the early groundwork required before any physical building can begin.
A geo‑technical survey examines the seabed and underlying soil to determine its strength and suitability for heavy infrastructure. The findings guide decisions on piling, foundation depth and long‑term structural stability.
CHEC is a major Chinese state‑owned contractor with a long record of large‑scale infrastructure projects across Asia. In the Maldives, the company is best known for constructing the Sinamalé Bridge, the country’s first inter‑island bridge linking Malé, Hulhulé and Hulhumalé. The bridge was completed in 2018 and remains one of the most prominent Chinese‑funded projects in the country.
The Thilafushi port development will replace the current five‑hectare Malé Commercial Harbour with a modern 20‑hectare facility. Plans include a 650‑metre quay wall, a 125‑metre road bridge, an X‑ray inspection facility, automated handling systems and a bonded warehouse.
Officials say the expanded port is expected to ease congestion, improve turnaround times and support rising import volumes. With survey work now underway, the project is moving into its first tangible phase, though MPL has not yet announced when construction will begin.
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