Grand ceremony planned for completion of Hiyaa Towers elevator project
The government has scheduled a ceremony for July 2 to mark the completion of 32 new elevators installed across the Hiyaa flats. Although the project, contracted to a Chinese firm for MVR 278 million, has faced allegations of corruption due to its high cost, the government has yet to issue an official response. While the physical works were initially contracted to be completed within one year, the elevators in all towers only became operational this June.
The elevators in Hiyaa Flat Tower 2. Many residents continue to express concern and report ongoing technical issues with the elevators. | Raajje MV
A grand ceremony has been scheduled to mark the commencement of the project to install additional lifts in the Hiyaa towers.
Information has been received that the ceremony is scheduled to take place at 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Hulhumale' Ruhgandu area. According to some media reports, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and senior government officials are expected to attend the event.
While the government hails this project as a major success, many allege that the contract for installing elevators in the Hiyaa flats was awarded at an exorbitant price, raising concerns of potential corruption. However, the government has yet to provide an official response regarding these allegations.
The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) previously informed the Parliament's Public Accounts Committee that it spent $18 million (MVR 278 million) on the installation of 32 new elevators.
The project was awarded to China's Shenyang Yuanda Intellectual Industry Group Co., Ltd. on February 12, 2024. Physical works commenced on April 18, 2024, under a contract requiring the company to complete the project within one year.
However, the installation of lifts in all towers was completed and brought into service only in June of this year.
