The Maldives Customs Service has reported that 15,551 motorcycles were imported into the country in 2023. As part of the Statistics Day celebration, social media platform X also revealed that 1,347 cars arrived this year. These figures highlight the growing trend of vehicle imports in the Maldives and reignite concerns about traffic congestion, particularly in Male' City.
Surge in Vehicle Imports
Vehicle imports in the Maldives have steadily increased over the years, and the latest data from 2023 reinforces this trend. Motorcycles remain the most popular choice, with over 15,000 new imports recorded this year alone. Although fewer cars were imported, they still contribute to the already severe traffic congestion in Male', a city notorious for its narrow streets and overcrowded roads.
While the statistics don’t specify how many of these vehicles are concentrated in the capital, it’s clear that Male' is bearing the brunt of the traffic problem. Motorcycles, due to their affordability and practicality, have surged in popularity, further worsening the traffic situation that Male' has been struggling with for years.
Traffic Issues in Male' City
According to records, around 90% of the vehicles registered annually in the Maldives are motorcycles, and most of them operate within Male'. This has led to severe traffic congestion in the city, creating significant challenges for infrastructure and road safety.
The high volume of motorcycles, combined with cars and pedestrians, clogs the already narrow streets, making it difficult to manage traffic flow. As a result, Male' experiences frequent traffic jams, delays, and an increase in road accidents, all of which have negatively impacted the daily lives of residents.
Government Efforts to Tackle Congestion
The Maldivian government has long been addressing the issue of traffic congestion but with limited success. In December 2022, the current administration established a special committee to tackle the growing number of vehicles, a move that was seen as necessary to confront this pressing issue.
While the committee continues its work, many residents feel that more immediate and effective solutions are required. Suggestions such as restricting the number of new vehicles allowed in the city and improving public transportation have been proposed, but concrete results have yet to materialize.
