Republic Square closed for Independence Day events

Republic Square has been closed off to vehicles from 1 pm today until the conclusion of activities marking the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day.

Authorities have implemented heightened security and traffic restrictions around the area ahead of official celebrations.

While vehicle access to and from Republic Square is restricted, pedestrians will still be allowed to walk to and from the Islamic Centre, officials said.

“In light of the changes to traffic flow in the Republic Square area, there may be difficulty entering and exiting the zone. We urge the public to park vehicles outside the restricted area and proceed on foot,” the notice read.

Activities including a Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) drill began at 4:15 pm today, with route marches and schoolchildren’s performances set to take place across Male' tomorrow.

The official Independence Day ceremony is scheduled to begin at 8:30 am tomorrow.