Public criticism mounts after section of the ceiling collapsed at the newly opened terminal of VIA
Although no injuries were reported in the incident, complaints regarding the poor quality of airport facilities and management have intensified; meanwhile, efforts to obtain a comment from the airport's operating company have so far been unsuccessful.
Photos showing sections of the ceiling that collapsed at Velana International Airport. | Social Media | Social Media
Public criticism has mounted after a section of the ceiling collapsed at the newly opened terminal of Velana International Airport (VIA).
All airlines transitioned operations to Velana International Airport’s (VIA) new Terminal 1 in late December last year. Consequently, the public has voiced sharp criticism over such an incident occurring so soon after the facility's inauguration. Furthermore, members of the public have asserted that VIA has a responsibility to clearly disclose whether such issues have been resolved, emphasizing that transparency is essential for the safety and security of both the general public and tourists.
A video showing a portion of the ceiling collapsing at the premises has gone viral on social media. A reliable source informed RaajjeTV that the incident occurred in early February. Despite rumors circulating that a tourist was injured by the falling debris, sources told RaajjeTV that no injuries were reported in the incident.
Reports indicate that tourists were present in the area when a section of the ceiling collapsed. The incident occurred in the vicinity of the Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) check-in counters. This publication has also learned that repair work on the affected area has since been completed.
The quality of work and organizational standards at the new airport terminal are facing widespread public criticism. A member of the public, sharing their experience on social media, highlighted that the water dispensers installed at the terminal have not had their filters replaced since the facility opened. The individual noted that after the water turned a yellowish hue due to the neglected filters, the supply was eventually cut off. They further stated that there is currently no way for passengers to access drinking water at the airport.
Despite repeated attempts by this newspaper to obtain a comment from Velana International Airport regarding the matter, the company has yet to provide a response.
