Modi in Male: 7 big infra projects India has built for Maldives

Despite India and the Maldives undergoing a period of political recalibration under President Mohamed Muizzu, the long-standing development partnership between the two nations remains defined by key infrastructure projects that have transformed the archipelago’s urban connectivity.

Over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, India has funded and implemented a string of high-impact projects, ranging from bridges and roads to ports and renewable energy systems under its broader ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.

Here are seven of the biggest infrastructure projects India has built or is building in the Maldives:

Greater Male connectivity project  

India’s largest development project in the Maldives, the $500 million Greater Male Connectivity Project is a game-changer for the island nation. Funded through a $100 million grant and $400 million line of credit from India, the 6.74 km bridge and causeway network will connect the capital Male with three neighbouring islands—Villingili, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi, enhancing connectivity for nearly half of the Maldivian population. The project is being executed by India’s Afcons Infrastructure Ltd.

Hanimaadhoo international airport expansion

With a financial package of $136 million under India’s Line of Credit, the expansion of Hanimaadhoo International Airport in northern Maldives is aimed at boosting regional tourism and trade. The project includes a new 2.46 km runway and passenger terminal capable of handling 1.3 million passengers annually.

Addu roads and reclamation project

India has committed $200 million to revamp infrastructure in Addu City, the second-largest urban centre in the Maldives. The project includes road development and land reclamation works which are vital for economic development and climate resilience in the southernmost atoll.

Gulhifalhu port development

India is supporting the first phase of the Gulhifalhu Port project, designed to become a key transhipment and commercial hub for the Maldives. It aims to decongest Male’s existing port and strengthen the logistics infrastructure of the capital region.

Water and sanitation projects across 34 islands

With a $100 million Indian grant, water and sanitation infrastructure is being developed on 34 remote islands across the Maldives. These projects are essential for public health and sustainable living in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations.

Social housing units in Hulhumale

India has funded the construction of 2,000 affordable housing units in Hulhumale under an $80 million Line of Credit. Executed by NBCC (India) Ltd, the project aims to ease housing shortages and improve urban living conditions in the rapidly expanding capital region.

Renewable energy projects across the Maldives

In line with the Maldives’ climate goals, India has helped install rooftop solar panels in government buildings, street lighting systems and hybrid renewable energy projects across various islands. India also assisted with a project to set up solar-battery-diesel hybrid systems on 11 islands.

India’s enduring development role

Despite recent diplomatic friction over the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and a tilt towards China by the current Maldivian administration, these projects stand as a testament to India’s long-term developmental footprint in the Maldives. Indian-funded infrastructure not only supports the Maldivian economy but also reinforces regional stability and shared prosperity.