New elevators in second Hiyaa tower now operational

The newly installed elevators in the second tower of Hiyaa housing flats have officially begun operation, Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has said.

An HDC spokesperson told Mihaaru News that the elevators became operational last Sunday. These are the first of the new units being added across the Hiyaa towers as part of a broader infrastructure upgrade promised by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

Designed to enhance accessibility, the new elevators are large enough to accommodate stretchers and can carry up to 21 people at a time, significantly easing the burden on residents in the high rise buildings.

HDC is installing two additional elevators in each of the 16 Hiyaa towers. Installation work in towers 1, 3, and 4 is nearly complete, with testing currently underway. HDC aims to finish installing elevators in all towers by October this year.

The elevator upgrade project began on April 18 last year, and is being carried out by China's Shenyang Yuanda Intellectual Industry Group Co. The project includes 32 new elevators at a total cost of USD 18 million (MVR 278 million).

Hiyaa’s 25-storey towers, built during former President Abdulla Yameen’s administration, originally had three or four elevators each. However, residents have long complained about overcrowding and long wait times. Installing more elevators was one of President Muizzu’s key campaign promises.

HDC has stated that this project is expected to significantly reduce elevator wait times and improve overall accessibility for residents living in Hiyaa flats.