A major step toward realising the long-envisioned bridge connecting Hithadhoo and Hulhumeedhoo in Addu City has been taken, with China’s TYLin International Engineering Consulting Company Limited awarded the consultancy contract to conduct surveys, a feasibility study, and detailed design for the project.

The agreement was signed on Sunday between Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib and Chen Xiaohu, President of TYLin’s Chinese branch, at a ceremony held in Malé.

Under the contract, the firm will conduct all required surveys, prepare detailed designs and technical specifications, and compile the necessary documents for the tendering and implementation phase of the bridge project.

Speaking at the event, Minister Muththalib explained that the consultancy phase would assess whether the Hithadhoo–Hulhumeedhoo link is the most viable and beneficial option for Addu City.

He noted that the detailed designs and studies would help the Government secure financing and a capable contractor, paving the way for timely commencement of physical works.

The Minister also revealed that the project was initially awarded last year to an Egyptian company under a financing and construction arrangement. However, the company failed to secure the required funding, prompting the Ministry to reassign the consultancy work to a new firm.

The USD 1,025,000 consultancy project will be conducted in three stages over six months and implemented in accordance with Ministry of Finance and Planning policies.

Minister Muththalib assured that the bridge project will be guided by community consultation and executed in a manner that delivers maximum economic and social benefit to Addu City.