Minister of Construction Dr. Abdullah Muttalib has announced that new housing opportunities will be explored to improve the living conditions of those who have been allocated units in the Hiyaa Flats.
Speaking at a ceremony held to mark the completion of additional elevator installations at the Hiyaa Flats, the Minister noted that while many families who moved into the two-bedroom units have since seen improvements in their circumstances and wish to upgrade to more spacious accommodation, priority must nonetheless be given to those who remain without housing. He further affirmed that the Government will continue its efforts to address the challenges faced by residents of the Hiyaa area.
The Minister acknowledged that certain obstacles persist — including the allocation of plots on land originally reserved for the Hiyaa area and an overall shortage of available land — yet highlighted that significant progress has been made over the past two years to enhance the quality of life for residents.
Although the Hiyaa Project, comprising 16 towers of 25 storeys each, was completed in 2018, the handover of units without finishing work, doors, or basic utilities caused considerable hardship for residents. However, the administration of President Dr. Muizzu has since taken meaningful steps to ease these burdens, including a reduction of MVR 200,000 from finishing costs, a decrease in monthly rent, and the installation of two spacious elevators — large enough to accommodate a stretcher — in each tower.
