The government aims to provide solutions to transport challenges in Greater Male’ Area by 2028, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed has said.
Speaking at a ceremony held to launch Male’ Taxi Line services in Villimale’, the minister said ministries are working jointly to identify unresolved transport issues in the city, under the direction of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
According to the minister, key issues being addressed include parking shortages, vehicle registration challenges, and traffic congestion. A detailed transport plan will be presented to the public in the future, he revealed.
The minister further described the launch of Male’ Taxi Line service in Villimale’ as evidence of the President fulfilling his promises to the area. Strengthening the Greater Male’ transport system and providing a comprehensive solution is a key priority of President Muizzu, he said.
Highlighting ongoing development in Villimale’, including housing and hospital projects, the minister said the current administration is the government that has given most attention to Villimale’ thus far.
Speaking at the ceremony, Member of Parliament for Villimale’ Mohamed Ismail said previous administrations over the past 15 years had not given sufficient attention to the area. However, President Muizzu has prioritised the provision of essential services to Villimale’ from day one since taking office, he noted.
The Male’ Taxi Line is intended to address long-standing taxi shortages in the Greater Male’ area. The taxi service is expected to be further expanded based on demand.
Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC)’s Managing Director Ahmed Saudhee said the Taxi Line service will make travel easier for residents of Villimale’, improving local mobility. Passengers can book taxis via the app or by calling a dedicated hotline, he said.
Saudee clarified that the existing bus service in Villimale’ will continue alongside the taxi service, and will not be reduced. Buses will continue to operate the same routes, while taxis provide additional coverage to areas inaccessible by the bus, he noted.
The Male’ Taxi Line service is a 24-hour operation introduced on April 2 in the city and Hulhumale’.