What does an urban archipelago look like?

When you think of an archipelago, you might imagine a group of islands scattered across the ocean, each with its own unique features and attractions. But what if an archipelago was not only a natural phenomenon, but also a human-made one? What if a city could transform itself into an archipelago, with different islands serving different purposes and functions?

That is the case of Malé, the capital and most populous city of the Maldives, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean. Malé is one of the smallest and most densely populated cities in the world, with an area of 8.30 square kilometers and a population of over 250,000. The city has grown rapidly in recent years, and the strains of keeping up with the growth have led to creative solutions with the limited land resources that the country has.

Malé consists of a central island, where most of the administrative, commercial, and cultural activities take place, and four other islands that are connected by bridges or ferries. These islands are:

– Hulhulé, where the Velana International Airport is located. The airport is the main gateway to the Maldives, and serves both domestic and international flights.
– Hulhumalé, a reclaimed island that was developed to ease the congestion and housing shortage in Malé. Hulhumalé is a planned city, with modern infrastructure, facilities, and services. It also boasts of beautiful beaches, green spaces, and recreational areas.
– Vilimalé, a former resort island that was converted into a residential area. Vilimalé is a quiet and peaceful island, with a relaxed atmosphere and a low-carbon lifestyle. It also has a rich history and culture, as it was once the seat of the ancient Maldivian kings.
– Thilafushi, an industrial island that was created by dumping garbage and waste from Malé and other nearby islands. Thilafushi is home to various factories, warehouses, and workshops, and provides employment and income for many Maldivians. However, it also poses environmental and health challenges, as it pollutes the air, water, and soil.

Malé is an urban archipelago, a city that has adapted to its geographical and demographic realities by creating and connecting different islands. Each island has its own identity and function, but they are also part of a larger whole, a metropolis that is constantly evolving and expanding.

But what is it like to live and work in such a city? How do people experience and perceive the urban archipelago? To answer these questions, we interviewed some people who have lived or worked in Malé, and asked them to share their stories and opinions.

Amina, a teacher from Hulhumalé

Amina is a 32-year-old teacher who lives in Hulhumalé with her husband and two children. She works at a primary school in Malé, and commutes by ferry every day.

“I moved to Hulhumalé five years ago, when I got married. My husband works at the airport, so it was convenient for him. I also liked the idea of living in a new and modern city, with more space and facilities. Hulhumalé is very different from Malé, where I grew up. It is less crowded, less noisy, and less polluted. There are more trees, parks, and playgrounds. The beaches are clean and beautiful. I feel more relaxed and comfortable here.

However, there are also some challenges and drawbacks. The main one is the transportation. The ferry service is not very reliable or frequent, and sometimes there are long queues and delays. It takes me about 30 minutes to get to Malé, and another 15 minutes to get to my school. Sometimes I have to wake up very early, or rush to catch the last ferry. It can be very stressful and tiring.

Another issue is the social and cultural difference. Hulhumalé is a very diverse and cosmopolitan city, with people from different backgrounds, religions, and nationalities. I think this is a good thing, as it promotes tolerance and understanding. However, some people are not very open-minded or respectful, and they may have different values and lifestyles. For example, some people dress or behave in ways that are not appropriate or acceptable in our culture. Sometimes I feel like I don’t belong here, or that I am losing my identity.

Overall, I like living in Hulhumalé, but I also miss Malé. I miss my family and friends, who still live there. I miss the old buildings and monuments, the markets and shops, the festivals and events. I miss the sense of community and history that Malé has. I think Malé is more lively and vibrant, more authentic and charming. Hulhumalé is more modern and convenient, but also more artificial and bland.”

Lila, a journalist from Malé

Lila is a 25-year-old journalist who lives and works in Malé. She writes for a local newspaper, covering various topics such as politics, culture, and society.

“I was born and raised in Malé, and I love this city. It is my home, my workplace, and my playground. It is where I have my family and friends, my memories and dreams. It is where I learn and grow, where I express and create.

Malé is a small city, but it has a lot to offer. It has a rich and diverse history and culture, with influences from different regions and religions. It has a vibrant and dynamic society, with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. It has a lively and creative atmosphere, with events and activities for all tastes and interests.

Some of the things I enjoy doing in Malé are:

– Visiting the Old Friday Mosque, the oldest mosque in the Maldives, and admiring its coral stone architecture and carvings.
– Exploring the National Museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits from the ancient to the modern times, showcasing the Maldivian heritage and identity.
– Shopping at the Majeedhee Magu Road and Chaandhanee Magu Road, where I can find local souvenirs, handicrafts, and fashion.
– Relaxing at the Artificial Beach, where I can swim, sunbathe, or play volleyball.

Malé is a beautiful and exciting city, but it also has some problems and challenges. The main one is the overcrowding and congestion. The city is too small for its population, and there is not enough space or resources for everyone. The traffic is terrible, and the pollution is high. The housing is expensive, and the quality is low. The noise is constant, and the stress is high.

Another issue is the social and political instability. The city is often the scene of protests and conflicts, as people express their dissatisfaction and demand their rights. The government is often corrupt and oppressive, and the opposition is often violent and radical. The media is often censored and biased, and the public is often misinformed and manipulated.

Sometimes I feel frustrated and hopeless, and I wonder if things will ever change or improve. Sometimes I feel tempted and curious, and I wonder what it is like to live or work in other places.