Maldives Parliament passes Land Transport Bill to overhaul road safety

The People's Majlis has passed the Land Transport Bill, a government-sponsored piece of legislation designed to modernize the regulatory framework for ground transportation in the Maldives. The bill, introduced by MP Mohamed Shamin Habib, received 47 votes in favor and 12 against.

Key provisions of the new law include a 20-year lifespan cap on the registration and operation of most land vehicles. To manage urban congestion, the bill establishes a Greater Malé Transport and Mobility Office, which will have the authority to set vehicle quotas in the region. Additionally, a Traffic Management Centre will be operated by the Maldives Police Service, and a Land Transport Mobility Fund will be created to finance infrastructure.

The legislation designates the transport ministry as the primary governing body and mandates the creation of a National Road Safety Council and a Road Safety and Traffic Management Advisory Committee. Within six months of the law taking effect, a National Land Transport Strategy must be formulated. The bill also introduces stricter enforcement measures, such as a demerit point system and automatic license suspension for unpaid fines exceeding MVR 5,000.