Major changes to traffic flow in Malé

The roads around the Islamic Centre in central Malé are set to be pedestrianized in an effort to relieve traffic congestion and to allow the use of the adjacent Republic Square for mass prayers, the ministry of housing has said.

The changes are due to come into effect on August 6, Thursday.

In a joint press briefing today, the police and the housing ministry said the area between the junction of the Chaandanee Magu and Medhu Ziyaaraih Magu up to the point where Medhu Ziyaaraih Magu meets Shaheed Kuda Adam Kuda Tuthu Hingun will be pedestrianized.

Minister of Housing Dr. Mohamed Muizz stated some 25,000 people will then be able to pray in the Islamic Center and its grounds. The Islamic Center is the largest mosque in the Maldives.

Although thoroughfare Chaandhanee Magu was previously a one-way road, sections of it will now be made into a two-way road. Sections of the adjoining Lily Magu will also be accessible to two-way traffic flows.

Muizz also said roads will be widened to facilitate the new traffic routes.