A fire that broke out in the early hours of January 22 at a warehouse in Malé has displaced 33 individuals from 10 households. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has been working to provide temporary shelter and assistance to those affected by smoke and structural damage.
The fire originated from the warehouse of Fruit Tree Apple store, located on the first floor of MA Spring River. The incident was reported at 4:20 a.m., with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) successfully bringing the blaze under control by 5:27 a.m. and fully extinguishing it by 6:00 a.m.
According to the MNDF Malé Fire Station Commander, no injuries or significant property damage occurred. However, as a precautionary measure, nearby buildings were flooded, and residents were evacuated. He commended the swift response from the police and local residents, whose coordinated efforts played a crucial role in the firefighting operation.
The displaced individuals include 14 Maldivians and 19 foreigners. The NDMA has provided temporary accommodation and meals for 22 individuals, consisting of all 14 Maldivians and eight foreigners from five households. Additionally, one migrant family has been relocated to temporary accommodation, while 11 other foreign nationals have received support from their respective employers.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and are working to provide long-term solutions for those affected by the fire.