MALE’ — The Thilamalé Bridge, which will connect Malé, Vilimalé, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu, has been designed to remain structurally durable for around 120 years, with major maintenance expected only once every two decades, according to the contractor overseeing the project.
S.M. Vishwamurthy, Project Head at Indian infrastructure company AFCONS, said the bridge has been engineered to stringent durability and safety standards, taking into account the Maldives’ challenging marine environment.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Press, Vishwamurthy said the main structure of the bridge is being constructed using high-quality materials that meet international standards.
He said the structural components are therefore not expected to require frequent major repairs. However, as with any large infrastructure project, maintenance will be necessary over time due to continued use and exposure to environmental conditions.
According to Vishwamurthy, significant maintenance interventions are expected approximately once every 20 years.
The bridge has also been designed specifically to withstand the conditions found in the Maldives, including strong winds and the corrosive impact of the marine environment.
Engineers have taken into account projected extreme wind conditions that could occur during the bridge’s 120-year design life, while additional safety factors have been incorporated into the overall engineering design.
Special attention has also been given to corrosion prevention.
Vishwamurthy said specialised stainless steel is being used in the bridge’s railing system to improve resistance to the corrosive effects of seawater and salt-laden air.
The engineering design has undergone independent reviews and verification involving internationally recognised engineering firms, including Arup.
AFCONS said the quality of concrete, steel and other materials being used in the project is also subject to regular testing and quality-control procedures to ensure that they meet the required engineering standards.
The Thilamalé Bridge forms part of one of the Maldives’ largest infrastructure developments, establishing a direct road connection between Malé, Vilimalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.
Project reaches 77 percent completion
Overall progress on the project has now reached 77 percent, while approximately 90 percent of the bridge’s main structural works have been completed.
A major milestone was recently achieved with the launching of the final bridge segment between Malé and Vilimalé, physically linking the two islands through the bridge structure.
Work is continuing on the remaining structural, finishing and associated infrastructure components.
The project is targeting completion by the end of next year, after which the bridge is expected to be opened to public traffic.
Vishwamurthy stressed, however, that the bridge will only be opened after all required inspections, tests and safety assessments have been successfully completed.
He said the project team would ensure that the bridge meets the highest required safety standards before vehicles and the public are permitted to use it.
The Thilamalé Bridge is expected to significantly transform connectivity within the Greater Malé region by creating a continuous road network linking the capital with Vilimalé and the rapidly developing industrial and urban areas of Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi.
