Adhadhu understands that the road construction project in Hulhumale' was awarded to a Chinese company at an exorbitant price after rejecting Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) and Road Development Corporation (RDC).

With local council elections looming, Housing Development Corporation (HDC) awarded the contract to China's Rotime Engineering and Technology Co. Ltd.

Although HDC did not disclose the details of the project, reliable sources close to the company's management and board told Adhadhu that Rotime was awarded the work for about MVR 90 million. But the actual cost is expected to be around MVR 30 million.

"These are bad decisions. Even if the board approves it, not everyone on the board is happy with it. And the HDC's affairs are being conducted in a more secretive manner," a source said.

When asked about the cost of the project, an official of the company said to proceed through proper channels, referring to requests under the Right to Information Act or a written response.

According to HDC, the agreement includes the construction and rectification of roads. HDC said this is an important step to improve the quality of infrastructure in Hulhumale'.

The HDC did not disclose any further information about the agreement. The contract value and roads to be constructed are unknown.

Rotime Engineering and Technology Co. Ltd was awarded the contracts to develop the Smart Warehouse Complex in Hulhumale', the Children's Center and the Surfing Stadium in Male' last year.

The company is also developing the "co-living" building in Hulhumale' Phase 2, which is now nearing completion.

Hulhumale' roads were first built by Thailand's Pruksa. Most of the remaining roads were developed by Mohan Mutha Company of India, including roads in Phase 1 and Phase 2.

Similar projects at exorbitant prices were awarded to Chinese companies during the parliamentary elections in 2024.

The projects include installing 32 elevators in the Hiyaa tower at a cost of USD 18 million. Some of the projects awarded during the parliamentary polls have not yet started.