Malé Seawall Restoration to Begin in May

Physical restoration of the seawall encircling Malé is scheduled to begin in May as part of efforts to strengthen the capital’s defences against rising maritime threats, according to the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure.

The project addresses significant deterioration of the barrier, which was originally constructed in phases between 1988 and 2002. In February, the government signed a contract with Toyo Construction Company Limited, a Japanese firm known for its expertise in disaster resilience, to carry out the restoration works.

A survey conducted by the ministry identified displaced boulders and structural damage caused by continuous wave action, highlighting the urgent need for repairs. Officials noted that the seawall remains a critical line of defence against hazards such as tsunamis and tidal swells, with climate change contributing to the increased frequency and intensity of such events.

The project will cover key areas including Raalhugandu, the North Harbour, Rasfannu and the Tsunami Monument. Planned works include re-profiling sections of the barrier and raising the seawall near the King Salman Mosque by 70 centimetres. Repairs will also be carried out along sections in front of the Bank of Maldives and the Citron restaurant area.

In addition to structural improvements, the project will introduce diagnostic equipment to establish a centralised monitoring system for 16 pump stations, aimed at improving flood management across the city.