HDC refuses to disclose additional elevator cost in Hiyaa flats
The company said the information could not be released, citing Article 25 of the Right to Information Act.
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By
Aishath Fareeha Abdulla
Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has said that it is not possible to disclose the cost of installing additional lifts in the Hiyaa flats developed in Hulhumale Phase II.
MVR 200 million has been included in the budget for installation of additional elevators in Hiyaa flats.
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Installing more elevators in Hiyaa towers is president Dr. Mohammed Muizzu’s presidential pledge
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The elevator installation work has been awarded to China’s Shenyang Yuanda Intellectual Industry Group Co. Ltd.
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Practical work began on 18th last month
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The work was assigned to be completed within 1 year
Under the project:
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Two elevators will be installed in each tower; a total of 32 new elevators
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The additional elevators consist of a passenger lift and a stretcher lift
The HDC has refused to share the details of the total cost of the additional elevator installation project and the price of the project that was given to the Chinese company, even when inquired under the Right to Information Act.
The company said the information could not be released, citing Article 25 of the Right to Information Act.
The article HDC cited to withhold the information describes situations where a state-owned enterprise can withhold information under the Right to Information Act.
The State Institute can withhold information if it:
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Concerns confidential business matters: This applies to information gathered under a confidentiality agreement, including trade secrets and information that could harm a third party's business or finances.
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Involves international relations: If disclosing the information could damage Maldives' relationship with another country or international body.
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Concerns private agreements or transactions: This applies to information about agreements or transactions between private individuals or companies, where disclosure would reveal personal, financial, debt, or business secrets.
