The Infrastructure Ministry has said that a specific date has not yet been set to begin the project to redevelop the roads of Male'.

President Mohamed Muizzu earlier said the project with Chinese free assistance will begin in 2024, while Infrastructure Minister Abdullah Muththalib later said the project would start in 2025. It has been more than 1.5 years since the feasibility study was awarded.

In response to a Right to Information (RTI) request from Adhadhu, the Infrastructure Ministry said the delays were due to the time needed to obtain administrative approvals by the Chinese government.

"The date of commencement of the work will be determined after receiving the necessary permits from the Chinese government," the Infrastructure Ministry's information officer said.

"Once the Chinese government approves and a contractor is appointed, the practical work will start."

Meanwhile, the government has been spending from the state budget to redevelop the Boduthakurufaanu road near the harbour of the north of Male'.

The government has not disclosed the project value. The project is being undertaken by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).