HULHULE-MALE’ BRIDGE PROJECT

EIA for the proposed Hulhule-Male’ Bridge Project
The Maldives Metrological Services raised concerns that the location of the proposed bridge is a
strong wave action area and recommended to do a long-term study of the waves and current at
the site before finalizing the design.
The overall consultations sound off a positive note with solutions and alternatives and mitigation
mechanism to combat any challenges that arose except for the loss of the recreational space and
the surf spots. These two main issues need further deliberation and alternatives.
10.3 Key findings of ferry user consultations
10.3.1 Public awareness and acceptance
According to the survey results, 98% of the current ferry users are aware of the bridge
development.
When the respondents were ask what their concerns were regarding the proposed bridge project,
44% of the respondents said that they do not have any concerns. However, 23% of the
respondents were skeptical about the project as they are still unsure if the proposed project
would happen any time soon or at all. Among the people who responded to the question, 9% of
them reported positive comments about the project.
While, 7% of the respondents raised concerns over the environmental impacts of the project, a
further 5% were concerned about safety and 5% on the destruction to the surfing spot in the
project area.
The members of the public who were consulted welcome the bridge development. The
overwhelming reason for the public acceptance is their perception that bridge will improve
connectivity. Members of the public believe that they will be able to use private motorcycles and
public transport to travel between Hulhumale’ and Male’. The residents of Hulhumale’ perceive
that bridge is a very good initiative that will increase the value of land and property in
Hulhumale’. The perception is that bridge will improve transport options and transport safety.
Most believe that bridge is a safer transport option than ferry travel.
10.3.2 Existing travel (Hulhumale’-Male’)
25% of those who travel between Male’ and Hulhumale’ commute to work. 17% stated they
travel for leisure. 13% are students who travel for education. 48% of respondents travelling on
the Hulhumale’ dhoni ferry reported using the service on a daily basis. The frequency of
respondents travelling on Hulhumale’ express ferry is equally distributed with 26% using the
service daily, followed by 24% several times a month and 21% less than once a month
Prepared by: CDE Consulting & China Shipping Environment Technology
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