China has signed a three-year extension on free maintenance works on the Sinamale’ Bridge in the Maldivian capital.

The implementation agreement on the bridge maintenance works was signed by Infrastructure Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib and Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin on Wednesday.

The project is contracted to China Communications Construction Company Second Harbor Engineering Company Limited (CCCC SHEC).

According to the Infrastructure Ministry, the agreement, valued at approximately USD 3.6 million, covers the development of resources and provision of technical expertise for the maintenance of the Sinamale’ Bridge.

It covers the development of a maintenance records management system, and assessments to identify maintenance issues.

Infrastructure Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib (R) and Chinese Ambassador Wang Lixin sign an agreement on Sinamale' Bridge maintenance works on March 20, 2024. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)

It also covers efforts to boost the capacity of local technicians to carry out maintenance works.

According to the Infrastructure Ministry, once the three-year agreement expires, a local team will be developed to take over the maintenance works.

Sinamale’ Bridge, which connects Male’ City with suburban Hulhumale’ and Hulhule’ – where the national airport is located, cost around USD 200 million to build.

It was inaugurated on August 30, 2018.