The first completed segment of the project to renovate
and asphalt Boduthakurufaanu Magu has been opened today, specifically the
section near Jumhooree Maidhaan (Republic Square).
This segment, situated between the
Fish Market and the Presidential Jetty, involved the reclamation of part of the
lagoon to expand the road to four lanes, accompanied by laying of new
asphalt.
Construction for this section began in August, marking the
completion of Segment 1 of the extensive ring road development project. The following
phase, Segment 2, will encompass the southern side of Boduthakurufaanu Magu,
stretching from the Fish Market to the North Harbour's end, with plans for
further widening and asphalting.
Given the heavy traffic congestion in this area, the
Ministry of Construction aims for a completion date of October 13 for the widening
and asphalting work between the Official Jetty and the Fish Market.

Before starting the second phase, the project
contractor, MTCC, announced last Thursday that they are seeking public
feedback. MTCC stated that the public consultation is intended to ensure the
project meets public expectations and sustainable development goals.

The survey seeks public opinions on the
anticipated benefits of the project, measures that can be taken to minimize
disruption during road closures, and the primary use of the area covered by the
second phase.
The entire ring road project is funded by the state
budget, with an allocation of MVR 144 million. MTCC is contracted to complete
the full project within 455 days.