Govt allocates plots to develop mini-bus parking spots

Government of Maldives allocates several plots to develop parking spots for the upcoming mini-bus transportation service in Greater Male' area.

Deputy Mayor of Male' City Ahmed Nareesh while speaking with Mihaaru news attested that Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (MNPHI) had allocated various empty plots, previously assigned for several government ministries, for the development of parking zones.

MNPHI was expected to share details of the allocated plots with Male' City Council on Monday, July 25.

Earlier, Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) requested from the government to vacate various vehicle parking and other plots across Greater Male' area to develop the mini-bus parking zones.

However, MTCC Managing Director Adam Azim bemoaned lack of cooperation on City Council's end towards the initiative.

Countering the MTCC front man's frustration, Male' City Deputy Mayor notified of ensuring alternative solutions for the residents living in the city before general vehicle parking locations are vacated.

Existing vehicle parking zones can only be shifted once alternative spaces have been allocated, says Deputy Mayor.

The newly allocated spaces for general vehicle parking requires additional time for development. These zones will become new parking zones for motorbikes and automobiles.

"Some of these plots are already occupied with establishments which needs to be removed before parking zones are drawn," the Deputy Mayor claimed.

Government was expected to dispatch teams to develop a stop for mini-buses in Majeedhee Magu on Monday.

The stops are developed with their routes linking to the Male' City ring-road.

"We will conclude developing the parking zones during the following week," Nareesh added.

General parking will be fully restricted in zones or roads with stops for mini-buses, to ensure uninterrupted traffic.

Apart from Male' City, the mini-bus services will be launched in Addu City, Fuvahmulah City and Laamu atoll for which MTCC acquired a total of 36 buses, out of which 12 will be add to the Male' area operation.