Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, Dr. Abdulla Muttalib, has stated that the Sinamalé Bridge narrowly avoided a potential catastrophe after two vessels anchored near Malé broke loose during a storm and collided with the structure. According to an inspection conducted by the bridge’s contractor, China’s CCCC Second Harbour Engineering Company (SHEC), the bridge sustained no structural damage, with only minor surface scratches reported. The Minister confirmed that the company would undertake the necessary repairs.
To mitigate the risk of such incidents in the future, Dr. Muttalib highlighted that the Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) is currently in the process of acquiring two high-capacity tugboats. Furthermore, he noted that regulations regarding vessel anchoring in harbor areas would be strengthened. The two vessels involved in the incident had been anchored near Dunidhoo since April, after illegally entering Maldivian waters.
