Chinese firm awarded Addu Bridge survey and design contract for USD 1 million

A Chinese company has been contracted to conduct the survey and design of the bridge connecting Hithadhoo and Hulhumeedhoo in Addu City.

The agreement was signed with T.Y. Lin International Engineering Consulting Company, with Construction Minister Dr. Abdullah Muthalib representing the Maldives and Chen Xiaohu, President of the company, signing on behalf of the firm.

According to the Construction Ministry, the scope of work includes topographic and bathymetric surveys, design preparation, technical specifications, and tender documentation. The contract is valued at USD 1,025,000 (approximately MVR 15.8 million) and is scheduled for completion within six months.

Minister Muthalib stated that the consultant was appointed in accordance with Finance Ministry regulations, and that the project will be carried out in a manner most beneficial to the public, with community consultation planned.

The signing ceremony for the consultancy services of the proposed Hithadhoo-Hulhudhoo-Meedhoo Link Bridge Project was held today. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, and the President of T.Y. Lin… pic.twitter.com/vPs53pKFsQ

— Ministry of Construction, Housing & Infrastructure (@MoCImv) October 26, 2025

The contract follows the termination of a previous agreement with Egypt’s The Arab Contractors, who were awarded the same scope of work in February 2024. The minister said the Egyptian firm failed to complete the survey or secure financing to begin the project, prompting the government to seek a new contractor.

The Addu Bridge project was included in the final week of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s first 100-day roadmap. Notably, the new contract was signed just one day after a referendum in Addu City approved the creation of separate councils for Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo. Residents of both islands have long cited travel difficulties to Hithadhoo for essential services as a key concern.

The bridge, expected to span 14 to 15 kilometers, was first promised by former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom during the 2018 election campaign. President Muizzu, who came to power with Yameen’s support, has reiterated the pledge as part of his infrastructure agenda.

Last year, MVR 30 million was allocated for the survey phase of the bridge project.