Transport Minister Mohamed Saeed has announced plans to introduce school-friendly buses for students travelling between Male' and Hulhumale'.

Speaking at the 8th episode of the “Ahaa” forum with government ministers, jointly organized by the President’s Office and state broadcaster PSM, Saeed said the government was working to introduce special buses during peak hours as well as dedicated services for school students.

He said the peak-hour bus service would cater to people travelling from Hulhumale' Phase 1 and Phase 2 to Male' for work, as well as those travelling to Hulhumale' for various purposes.

Buses will operate from Hulhumale' to the Velaanaage area and Green Zone at specific times, he said.

In addition, school-friendly buses will be introduced between Male' and Hulhumale' after consultations with school managements and parents, Saeed said.

He said the services were being introduced to reduce the number of people travelling to offices and schools by motorcycles and cars.

“Combined with the limitation on bridges and highways, space cannot be expanded anymore and given the increase in population in Male' area, one of the most appropriate solutions is to make mass transport more accessible to mobility and bring the necessary security and comfort,” Saeed said.

Discussions are also under way with relevant authorities to establish specific hours for heavy vehicles and goods vehicles in an effort to reduce traffic congestion in Male', he said.