The government is working to introduce dedicated peak-hour buses between Hulhumalé and Malé, as well as school-friendly services for students, as part of measures to address congestion in the capital, Economic Development and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed has said.
Speaking at the ‘Ahaa Forum’ held last night, Saeed said 82% of Malé’s roads are currently congested, while 130,806 vehicles are registered in the Greater Malé area, including 14,911 cars and 115,895 motorcycles.
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The minister said the government plans to control vehicle registrations in Malé, reduce the number of vehicles and increase reliance on public transport. An independent office established to address traffic issues has also begun work, he said.
Saeed said buses are being planned to operate during peak hours between Hulhumalé’s Phase 1 and Phase 2 and locations in Malé, including the Velanaage area and Green Zones. Dedicated buses for school commutes are also being planned.
The government is also nearing completion of the Ring Road around Malé, while its Mass Transport Mobility Plan includes installing traffic lights, increasing police presence on roads and revising vehicle-related fees based on engine capacity.
