Ecocare Maldives has expressed concern over the potential damage to the protected Nature Park in Addu due to the bridge planned to connect Hithadhoo-Hulhumeedhoo in Addu.
The organization emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance in the region's vulnerability, urging a reconsideration due to the potential significant damage that the bridge connecting the two islands could cause.
Ecocare has advocated for an improved ferry system as an alternative to the bridge, emphasizing that such a solution would prevent environmental harm.
"Given the need for connectivity, we propose to connect Hulhumeedhoo via Gamu road if we feel that a bridge is necessary. The environmental impact on Hithadhoo protected area can be mitigated by taking strong environmental measures and environmental protection measures," the statement said.
The organization wants the public, environmentalists and stakeholders to be involved in the decision-making process by focusing on environmental protection. Only then will it be ensured that development-related activities are being carried out in a responsible manner and the damage to the environment is minimized.
Ecocare has urged all authorities concerned to consider the damage caused by the bridge project carefully and come up with other solutions that can reduce the damage to Hithadhoo protected area.
MVR 30 million has been allocated in this year's budget to conduct a survey of Addu Bridge, one of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's pledges.
Public Policy Secretary at the President's Office Abdulla Nazim recently said that Egypt's The Arab Contractors Company has expressed interest in the construction of the Addu Bridge. In addition, the Addu Bridge was one of the projects opened to investors during the President's visit to China. The government also said that a Chinese company had shown interest in it.
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