Gov’t Urges Vessels to Avoid Route During Bridge Project

The Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure has issued a stern warning, advising vessels to steer clear areas that have been closed due to the ongoing Thilamale’ bridge project. 

This cautionary directive, motivated by safety concerns and the presence of active construction activities, underscores the potential hazards posed by disregarding the closure notices.

Specifically, canal routes such as Male’-Villimale’ and Villimale’-Gulhifalhu have been temporarily shut down to facilitate the smooth progress of the bridge construction work. Despite repeated advisories issued by the ministry, particularly targeting speed boats originating from resorts, concerns persist regarding the continued operation of vessels within these restricted areas.

Emphasising the intricacies of the construction process, the ministry has drawn attention to the extensive use of barges and self-elevated platforms deployed in the vicinity of the bridge construction site. 

Additionally, the presence of anchor bolts strategically positioned along the closed routes poses significant risks, potentially resulting in accidents and disruptions to the ongoing construction efforts.

In light of persistent non-compliance with the closure orders, the ministry has announced the implementation of stringent legal measures against vessels found violating the prohibition. 

Under the purview of the Local Transport Driving Licensing Regulations, the withholding of vessel licenses has been identified as a punitive measure for non-compliance, underscoring the gravity of safety violations and the imperative need for adherence to regulatory directives.