Vehicles ban on Maldives Independence Day eve

The government has announced a ban on all land vehicles on Friday afternoon, commemorating Maldives Independence Day.

Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation announced all land vehicles are restricted from travelling between 16:00 and 18:00 on Friday afternoon, with the exception of permitted vehicles, which usually include Ambulances.

Other exceptions to this restriction include vehicles operated by security forces (MNDF and Maldives Police Service) and vehicles for special needs persons. Public transportation modes, including buses and vehicles carrying inbound and outbound travelers is among the exceptions as well.

The ministry warned taking necessary action against anyone who does not adhere to the restriction.

Transportation and movement of vehicles are generally restricted on auspicious occasions, such as Independence Day, to allow families and pedestrians to come out to the streets to observe celebratory activities and spectacles.

Float and military parades are common sights at every Independence Day celebration in the past, but would not return this year as Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced that such expenses have been dropped to support the government’s ongoing fiscal reform efforts.