President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has formally extended his condolences to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of Bangladesh following a catastrophic fire on the island of Dhigurah, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, that claimed the lives of five Bangladeshi nationals and left several others in critical condition.
The fatal blaze erupted in the early hours of 13 March, tearing through an accommodation block housing foreign workers. The incident, characterised by the president as a "dangerous" and "sorrowful" tragedy, has prompted a high-level diplomatic response and a pledge for a comprehensive inquiry into the safety of worker housing.
Eight individuals sustained injuries during the catastrophe, according to medical bulletins released by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital. Five victims were pronounced dead upon arrival at the facility, while two others remain in highly serious condition, currently dependent on respiratory support. There has been no change in the status of the two patients on ventilators, hospital officials confirmed, noting that their clinical outlook remains grave.
In a formal communiqué to Prime Minister Rahman, President Muizzu expressed that he was "profoundly saddened" by the loss of life. The president offered his deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and the Bangladeshi citizenry, writing on behalf of the Maldivian government and its people. The Maldivian populace stands in "steadfast solidarity" with those confronting the "multifaceted damages" stemming from the tragedy, he declared, while also wishing a swift and full recovery for the survivors.
Bangladeshi nationals occupy an integral role within the fabric of Maldivian society, the president’s correspondence underscored, describing their contributions as "truly invaluable". The people of the Maldives share deeply in the "immense loss and grief" caused by the event, President Muizzu affirmed.
In a move toward institutional accountability, the president has instructed relevant authorities to conduct a "comprehensive investigation" into the incident. The executive mandate is intended to ensure that such tragedies are not repeated, signalling a rigorous review of the circumstances surrounding the fire.