The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has announced that eight newly installed lifts across the first four towers of the Hiyaa housing project will be operational in the first week of next month.

The lifts being installed at Hiyaa flats

Each of the four towers has been fitted with two lifts, as part of a Presidential pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to residents of the Hiyaa flats. HDC stated that the installation is progressing on schedule, with no reported delays. According to the corporation, lift installation work in the first three towers has been completed, and the lifts are currently undergoing final testing. Work on the fourth tower is nearing completion.

HDC also confirmed that corridor access will be finalised by the time the lifts are operational. The corporation assured that installation work in the remaining towers is ongoing and progressing without disruption. All necessary equipment has already been delivered to the respective sites.

Installation of the lifts began in April last year. Each Hiyaa tower houses approximately 400 flats and around 2,000 residents. Previously, each building had only three or four lifts, resulting in long queues and significant waiting times, particularly during peak hours.

A total of 32 lifts will be installed across 16 towers as part of the project. The work is being carried out by China's Shenyang Yuan Intellectual Group.

According to HDC, the new lifts are designed with enhanced accessibility features. They are capable of accommodating up to 14 people and are equipped to transport patients using stretchers. Floor numbers are also marked in Braille to assist visually impaired users.