The Civil Court has temporarily suspended the Housing Development Corporation’s (HDC) order to evict Riveli Beach Club and Restaurant in Hulhumalé, allowing the business to continue operating pending a final ruling.

The interim order follows a case filed by Solaris Hospitality Private Limited, which operates the restaurant, challenging HDC’s decision to terminate its land agreement over alleged unpaid rent.

The court said eviction and suspension of operations could cause irreparable harm to the company. It ordered HDC to refrain from taking steps to halt the restaurant’s operations and to restore the previous situation if any such action had already been taken.

Services at the restaurant, which were temporarily disrupted after HDC entered the premises, have resumed following the court order.

HDC said it terminated the agreement because of prolonged rental arrears, adding that it had followed the required procedures and provided the necessary notices and opportunities.

Riveli Beach Club and Restaurant reportedly owes HDC approximately MVR 5 million in rent.