Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) has given flat owners a one-month period to rectify unauthorized modifications made to the utility balconies of FDC flats.

In an announcement released by FDC tonight, it stated that any changes to utility balconies must be made in accordance with the standards established on the corporation's website. The company noted that making any modifications outside of these standards is prohibited.

Accordingly, permission has been granted for two specific designs to strengthen the safety of balconies and windows: grille and net fixings, and sliding louver fixings.

Therefore, FDC has instructed individuals who have modified their balconies outside of these two methods to bring them in line with the established guidelines before the 28th of next month. FDC stated that those who fail to rectify the issues within the stipulated period will be fined and subjected to regulatory action.

These measures to strengthen flat safety are being taken at a time when dangerous incidents of children falling from towers in Hulhumalé Phase 2 have occurred. Notably, a 16-year-old child fell from the Aman Udhares tower and was injured on the 2nd of this month, while a 2-year-old girl tragically lost her life after falling from the Stelco flat on the 3rd of this month.

Following these incidents, FDC Managing Director Hamdhan Shakeel stated earlier this month that discussions have begun regarding identifying children and individuals with special needs living in the "Aman Udhares" and "Aman Dhoadhi" towers and taking necessary steps to ensure everyone's safety.

Additionally, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has been carrying out work to install additional railings on the windows and balconies of flats in Hulhumalé.