Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has announced that 66 per cent of the work to install new lifts in the Hiyaa Towers has been completed, with the Government aiming to finish the project within this year.

The upgrade project, launched on 18 April 2024, will add two new lifts to each of the 16 towers. A total of 32 lifts are being installed under a contract awarded to China’s Shenyang Yuanda Intellectual Industry Group Company, valued at USD 18 million.

According to HDC, structural works for towers 3 to 9 have been completed, while foundation works for towers 13 to 16 are now finished. Steel structure works are ongoing for towers 7 to 12.

Lift installation in towers 1 and 2 has been completed, though HDC noted that further improvements are being identified in those lifts. Towers 3 and 4 already have lifts installed, with finishing works underway before they come into service. Installation is also in progress in towers 5 and 6.

The new lifts are the first of their kind to be fitted across the Hiyaa Towers and form part of efforts to enhance accessibility and safety for residents. Each lift can carry up to 21 individuals, is large enough to transport patients on stretchers, and includes floor numbers in Braille for the visually impaired.