In an unprecedented revelation made during the inauguration ceremony of Male’ city’s new Mayor, Adam Azim, and three councilors at Darubaaruge last night, President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu disclosed plans for a groundbreaking underwater sea tunnel connecting RasMale’ to the capital city, Male’. This visionary project, centered around RasMale’, is poised to become President Muizzu’s flagship initiative, specifically designed to address the persistent housing challenges in the capital city.
The dredging of RasMale’ has already commenced, marking a pivotal step towards alleviating the housing predicaments faced by the city’s residents. President Muizzu anticipates the completion of this dredging work within a span of eight months.
President Muizzu shed light on the innovative concept underpinning the project, revealing ongoing discussions with proficient companies to materialize the world’s inaugural underwater tunnel linking Male’ to RasMale’. This extraordinary tunnel, slated to accommodate a train for an unprecedented underwater journey, holds promise for a significant boost to the country’s tourism sector.
Underlining the government’s commitment to executing viable projects, President Muizzu outlined plans for a comprehensive bridge network connecting the lands near the city. While the Thilamale Bridge project, currently progressing towards Thilafushi, constitutes part of the capital region’s infrastructure development, the President emphasized the necessity for two additional bridges to connect the northern parts.
In addressing the acute housing problem, President Muizzu assured the public of his government’s dedication to resolving the issue within the mandated five-year term. Acknowledging the magnitude of the problem, he emphasized that even when combining Hulhumale, Gulheefalhu, Giraavarufalhu, and Uthuruthilafalhu—four manmade islands reclaimed from the sea—additional space remains imperative.
President Muizzu provided insights into ongoing efforts, disclosing plans for the dredging of an additional 50 hectares in Gulheefalhu and the reclamation of its deep parts. Notably, the Gulheefalhu port, initially proposed by the previous government, is being relocated to Thilafushi. The President clarified that constructing a port in Gulheefalhu is deemed unfeasible, necessitating the dedication of all available land to housing solutions.
President Muizzu’s comprehensive vision not only seeks to revolutionize the housing landscape but also aims to contribute significantly to the overall development of the Maldives. The underwater tunnel project and associated infrastructural advancements stand as testament to the government’s commitment to fostering positive change in the nation.