The Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works has said that MVR 42.19 million was spent from the state budget to light up cities and capital islands for Fitr Eid.
State Minister Ahmed Rasheed confirmed the cost of the project.
He told Adhadhu that the project was handed over to State Electric Company Limited (STELCO) under single source procurement. The project includes purchasing, transporting and installing the necessary lights and equipment in the cities and islands.
He added that Fenaka provided assistance in installing the lights and equipment in the islands.
Adhadhu understands that STELCO purchased the lights and equipment from a Chinese company. Some members of the public have seen employees, beleived to be from the Chinese company, working to install the lights in different parts of Male'.
State minister Rasheed said a total of 21 areas, including Male', four cities and atoll capital islands, were lit up under the project titled "Eid Ali" (Eid Luminous).
A ceremony was held at the Republic Square in Male' on Monday night to officially light up the 21 areas. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Ibrahim attended the ceremony.
Although the lights and equipment were purchased from the budget of the Local Government Ministry, they will be kept under the supervision of island and city councils after the Eid festivities.
