Theft of Electrical Cables Delays Lighting Hulhumalé Phase 2

The cables designated to power the street lights of Hulhumalé Phase 2 were stolen before electricity could be supplied, despite the completion of all electrical work last August. This was revealed by Fazul Rasheed, Managing Director of Housing Development Corporation (HDC), in a post on X (formerly Twitter) today.

"The cables installed for the street lights are missing," Fazul stated in response to concerns raised by People's National Congress (PNC) MP for North Hulhumalé, Hussain Shareef. MP Shareef had highlighted the ongoing issue of unlit roads in Hulhumalé Phase 2, expressing worries about public safety.

Fazul responded by questioning the efforts of the "top heavy" company tasked with the development of Hulhumalé, while sharing a screenshot of a message he received. The message, likely from a constituent, called for clarity on the lighting issue and emphasized the risk of accidents in the darkness.

"Can they tell us how long it will take to turn on the street lights of Phase 2? Please tell us if it would be resolved when a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle. Pedestrians can't be seen [because of the darkness]. A dangerous accident is very likely to happen," the message read.

Local reports suggest the large cables, which had been buried underground, were stolen after the roads were dug up. In response to the theft, HDC has ordered new materials to replace the missing cables and restore lighting to the area.

In a separate post, Fazul expressed appreciation for the continued efforts of HDC staff, acknowledging that while some work remains, progress is being made. He commended the dedication of the team, noting, "I am proud and grateful for the HDC staff for their tireless work."

The lack of street lighting in Hulhumalé Phase 2 has also drawn concerns from the Maldives Police Service, which warned of rising crime rates linked to the area remaining in the dark.