Authorities are currently monitoring 24 locations where migrant workers reside and have been cordoned off.
Joining the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC)’s press briefing on Monday, the Minister of Home Affairs Sheikh Imran Abdulla revealed that the authorities are also making arrangements for migrant workers as part of the government's efforts to identify, control and contain the spread of Covid-19 in the Maldives.
As such, the minister noted that at a time the pandemic is sweeping steadily across the globe, the biggest challenge facing authorities in curbing the spread of the virus is managing migrant communities.
Further, he noted that there are several hindrances in battling the pandemic due to the condition is which expatriate workers are forced to reside in after being brought to the country as well as their testing lifestyles. Due to their living conditions, these migrant workers are at a higher risk of contracting the virus and spreading it among their communities.
As part of the government’s efforts to provide better accommodation for migrant workers and ensure their safety, 24 locations where migrant workers reside, have been cordoned off.
About 1,500 migrant workers were residing in these regions, before some of them were transferred to facilities established by the government, said the minister.
These measures are being taken for the safety of the Maldives and its people. Maldivians as well as foreigners cooperate with us during these times. We receive aid from a number of individuals especially the Maldivian Red Crescent in providing food for these individuals”Sheikh Imran Abdulla, Home Minister
The minister went on to urge the public to be cautious during the upcoming days, where the Maldives is expected to reach its “Covid-19 peak”.
