HDC Replaces Hulhumale’ Roundabout Monuments with Trees After Project Suspension

MV+ News Desk | February 17, 2025
Photo: MV+

Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has begun planting trees in Hulhumalé roundabouts instead of constructing monuments, following the suspension of the original project despite the announcement of a first-place winner in November last year.

The initiative to build monuments in roundabouts was introduced under the previous management’s policy to enhance traffic flow in Hulhumalé. In September, HDC launched a competition to design monuments for 17 roundabouts under the theme “Maldives of the Maldivians,” offering a prize of MVR 100,000 to the winner. Seven parties submitted designs, and the winners were selected by a panel of professional staff judges.

However, concerns arose on social media, with accusations that the then-Managing Director, Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed’s management, had chosen AI-generated designs as the winner. In response to the criticism, HDC began investigating the matter. The project was later suspended, and Fazul resigned from his position.

Following the appointment of Mauroof Jameel as the new Managing Director, HDC decided to change its approach and plant trees in the roundabouts instead. Chief Operating Officer Ahmed Ibrahim (Pokman) stated on X that the decision to construct monuments was reconsidered due to public criticism. He noted that one roundabout has already been planted with trees, which are expected to enhance the area’s appearance as they grow and bloom.

In a statement addressing the competition, HDC emphasised that the initiative was intended to incorporate local artists’ ideas into Hulhumalé’s development. The corporation affirmed its commitment to ensuring opportunities for local artists and stated that public opinion and consultation remain central to its projects involving public spaces.

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