Two oil tankers that drifted out of control amid rough weather collided with the Sinamalé Bridge in Malé last night, causing minor damage but no major structural damage to the bridge.

Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr Abdulla Muthalib said the bridge’s main structure remains intact, although minor cracks were identified. The bridge operator, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), carried out a special inspection last night and today and will repair the cracks in line with the required standards.

Muthalib said such incidents pose a serious risk to key infrastructure in the Malé area, including bridges and Velana International Airport.

He said Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) is working to acquire two powerful tugboats capable of preventing vessels from drifting towards the bridge. The tugboats are expected to arrive within the next two months.

The authorities are also reviewing vessel berthing procedures and developing stronger emergency measures in coordination with the Coast Guard and other relevant agencies.

The two tankers, KG 1 and AL 1, were previously detained for entering Maldivian waters without notifying the relevant authorities or obtaining clearance. The case involving the vessels and their 20 Indian crew members is being investigated by the Maldives National Defence Force, Customs and the Transport Authority.