RCC awarded MVR 20 million to complete Jaah apartments

Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has awarded the remaining works of the long-delayed "The Gardens" apartment project in Hulhumale' Phase one to the state-owned Road Development Corporation (RDC) for MVR 20 million.

The project was originally developed by Jaah Investment Pvt Ltd, which began construction in 2017 under a two-year completion timeline. However, the project faced continuous delays for over eight years, prompting backlash from apartment buyers who protested the lack of progress.

A senior RCC official speaking to Mihaaru News said that the company has now taken over the project and aims to complete it within four months.

"The project was handed over at MVR 20 million. Different parts of the building are completed to different extents," the official said.

HDC has not issued an official comment on the handover process.

Despite Jaah Investment’s claims that 95 percent of the project was completed, HDC had issued multiple deadline extensions. Two years ago, Jaah was given 30 days to complete the flats and settle outstanding land payments. When that deadline passed with no progress, a further 45-day grace period was provided. After continued non-compliance, HDC terminated the agreement.

Jaah later filed a court case to prevent HDC from reclaiming the land, but the court ruled against granting an stay order.

In October 2023, HDC announced that internal finishing work was underway for all floors below the 10th level, including plastering, tiling, and ceiling installation. At the time, HDC had assured buyers the work would be completed within six months.

The Gardens project includes 83 apartments of 2+1, 3, and 3+1 layouts, many of which have already been sold.