Afcons, the India-based infrastructure company, has deployed a jack-up platform named “Maharaja” for medium water piling in Thilamale’ Bridge development project. This floating platform, with a self-weight of 650 tonnes and a carrying capacity of 350 tonnes, will play a crucial role in the construction of 24 piles between Male and Villingili.
Thilamale’ Bridge development project is a significant component of the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP) and is considered the single-largest infrastructure initiative in the Maldives. The project is funded through a US$400 million Line of Credit from the Indian Exim Bank and a US$100 million grant from the government of India. The primary objective of the project is to establish connectivity between Male’, Villimale’, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi.
Afcons Infrastructure, the company contracted for the bridge project on 26 August 2022, has been making progress. The “Maharani” Jack-Up, the first platform mobilised, has already been working on shallow water piles.
Today’s successful deployment of the Maharaja Jack Up marks a significant milestone in the project’s execution, as it will now be dedicated to medium water piling and superstructure works.
Furthermore, an additional larger platform, specifically designed for deep-sea piling, is currently en route to the Maldives and is expected to arrive in the coming weeks.
The scope of Thilamale’ Bridge development project includes the construction of three navigation bridges, a causeway, and a 6.7km road network. Additionally, it comprises 1.41 kilometres of marine viaduct in deep water, 2.32 kilometres of marine viaduct in shallow water or on land, and 2.96 kilometres of at-grade roads.
As part of the ongoing construction efforts, precast segments for Thilamale’ Bridge are being fabricated in Gulhifalhu. These segments, measuring 8.177 meters in length, will soon become integral components of the bridge structure.