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Infrastructure Minister Muthalib in a cabinet meeting - Photo: President Office

MALÉ: The Sinamalé Bridge did not sustain any structural damage after two vessels collided with one of its support pillars overnight, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib confirmed today.

The incident involved a fuel barge and a tugboat under Maldivian Customs Service custody that drifted out of control during strong weather conditions.

In a statement posted on social media, Minister Muththalib stated that China Second Harbour Engineering Company (SHEC), the contractor responsible for maintaining the bridge under Chinese government grant aid, conducted comprehensive inspections overnight and through the day. The inspection verified that the impact resulted only in minor cosmetic scratches to the outer surface coating.

SHEC will carry out necessary surface repairs on the pillar structure.

Addressing safety concerns regarding maritime activity near critical infrastructure, Minister Muththalib warned that unmanageable vessels in the Malé lagoon pose serious risks to the Sinamalé Bridge, the Thila-Malé Bridge, Velana International Airport, and other nearby assets.

To prevent similar incidents, the minister revealed that Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) is currently procuring two specialized rescue tugboats expected to arrive within the next two months. The new vessels will allow authorities to intercept and tow drifting ships before they reach critical infrastructure sites.

Vessels Involved: One fuel barge and one tugboat under Customs custody.

Inspection Authority: China Second Harbour Engineering Company (SHEC).

Structural Verdict: Minor surface scratches only; no structural damage detected.

Preventative Measures: MPL procuring two new rescue tugboats arriving within two months.