For the first time ever in the history of the Maldives, a smart bench that facilitates wireless charging for different devices was established in Hulhumale' Central Park. It was inaugurated by Transport Minister Aishath Nahula in a ceremony held on the 1st of April at Central Park. This was made possible by Housing Development Corporation (HDC).
The smart bench and smart pole were developed by Omniflow, and it is equipped with architectural lighting, USB, and wireless charging points. This station will also be able to act as a charging station for electrical bicycles and wheelchairs.
In order to attain a sustainable future, the smart pole is illuminated by solar and wind energy. It will be reducing fuel consumption of light posts by 90% and is also equipped with WiFi, and security cameras, and will have the capability to display digital advertisements and public information.
During her speech, Minister Nahula stated that similar facilities will be built across the nation to assist with the goal of increasing the usage of renewable energy in the Maldives.
On the same note, HDC's Managing Director Suhail Ahmed also noted that the smart pole and bench would utilize renewable energy and help to reduce the overall carbon emission of the city, and would significantly aid in making urban cities more sustainable.
More such facilities will be established future will be based on the usage statistics of this one.
“In the future, such initiatives will be carried out in a more extensive manner in the future,” he had said.