Firefighters extinguish blaze at waste pile near Dhoadhi 11 after six-hour operation

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has successfully extinguished a fire that broke out in a waste pile near the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) towers in Hulhumale' Phase 2, following an operation lasting more than six hours. The incident occurred late Friday night.

According to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), a fire was reported in a pile of garbage near Dhoadhi Flat 11 in Hulhumale' Phase 2 at approximately 02:21 AM on Friday night. Upon receiving the report, firefighters from the Hulhumale' Fire Station were immediately dispatched to the scene and commenced efforts to extinguish the blaze.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stated that firefighters worked tirelessly to bring the blaze under control, successfully extinguishing it by approximately 08:18 AM on Saturday. While there have been no reports of injuries, photos and videos circulating on social media show the fire had spread extensively. The footage also depicts thick plumes of smoke covering a significant portion of the surrounding area.

Residents began moving into these towers, constructed by the FDC, in late September last year. However, since the move-in process began, the issue of illegal waste dumping near the towers has escalated significantly. Large piles of garbage have accumulated near several towers, prompting repeated complaints and growing frustration from residents living in the area.

Regarding this issue, FDC previously stated that it is currently conducting waste clearance operations. The corporation also revealed that it has issued warnings to penalize those who dispose of waste in violation of regulations, noting that several individuals have already been fined. This major fire incident occurred at a time when the issue of illegal waste disposal has become increasingly prevalent.