The Road Development Corporation (RDC) has resumed work on the redevelopment of Ameenee Magu, one of Male’ City’s key thoroughfares. This move comes amidst a series of challenges and delays that have plagued the project since its inception.
The RDC announced the commencement of work on segments 12 and 13 of Ameenee Magu on Saturday. This marks a significant step in completing the redevelopment of the road, a project that has been a matter of public and administrative attention. The Maafannu end of Ameenee Magu, known for its heavy traffic and prominent landmarks such as food courts, a mosque, Viliamle’ Ferry Terminal, and Dhiraagu head office, is the focus of this phase.
Initially contracted to RDC on 03 July 2022, with a duration of 10 months for completion, during the former administration, the MVR 84.4 million redevelopment project faced setbacks, including long delays in the procurement of essential materials.
The former government’s planning ministry had previously indicated that the project could not be completed before the end of the administration’s term. This was attributed to delays in procuring “wide” pipes needed for the stormwater project, a collaboration with the World Bank, which necessitated importing these components.
The project has not been without its critics. In his former role as the Mayor of Male’, current President Mohamed Muizzu had repeatedly expressed concerns over the project’s execution and its impact on traffic flow. He highlighted the reduction in the width of the road from 25 feet to 21 feet 10 inches, potentially exacerbating congestion, and questioned the high cost of the project.
Public scrutiny intensified following instances of flooding in the newly developed but incomplete sections of Ameenee Magu, underscoring the urgency of completing the stormwater drainage system integral to the project.