HULHULE-MALE’ BRIDGE PROJECT

EIA for the proposed Hulhule-Male’ Bridge Project
6.9.1.5 Safety and accidents
The bridge and the linked roads will demand for a higher speed limit than the present 30km/hr
allowed in residential area of Male’. It is likely that a speed limit of 60km/hr will be allowed on
the bridge and the road across Hulhule’. Regulatory authorities express concern over road safety
with the increased speed. There is a need to evaluate the speed limit that will be allowed on the
bridge, and make seat belts, helmets, and reflectors mandatory in the Male’ zone. Speed cameras
and proper lighting will also become a necessity.
The concerned authorities highlight the need to ensure safety of marine vessels in the bridge
marine area. Collisions and accidents with the bridge pillars would need to be prevented through
information and education as well as regulatory measures.
6.9.1.6 Increased mobility
The migration to Male’ and greater Male’ region keeps on increasing, creating pressure on
available resources and a greater demand than the supply of service. Hulhumale’ phase 1 & 2
combined is planned for a 200,000 resident population. Similarly, already 153,379 people (40%
of the total population of the country) reside in the capital city Male’. Hence at present there is
overflow of commuters from Hulhumale’ both ways, and service providers are unable to meet
the demands of the commuters. Employment for jobs in Male’ is the primary reason for
commuting between Male’ and Hulhumale’. The peak hour rush is towards one way during
workdays. The bridge is proposed to be developed as an alternative transport passage via land
connection for the people residing in Hulhumale’, and for easing every day discomfort arising
from the ferry journey especially during monsoons.
The bridge will increase mobility for the population. The bridge provides the opportunity for
private independent travel at times of own choice. The bridge construction will also alleviate the
biggest challenge faced by travellers during rough weather conditions.
When Maldives Meteorological Services issues the yellow alert, ferry services are interrupted.
When the yellow alert is issued, ferry users put considerable pressure on the ferry operator to
continue the services. With the bridge construction, interruptions to travel from bad weather will
be minimal.
The bridge will improve the mobility for the vulnerable groups. The elderly, pregnant women,
persons with disability, and families with young children will get the opportunity for more
convenient and comfortable travel. In order to enable the vulnerable groups to access travel it
will be important to issue concession cards, designated seating, and education for drivers in
public transport.
Prepared by: CDE Consulting & China Shipping Environment Technology
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