The Ministry of Defence has announced the launch of a special operation to inspect chemical storage facilities, named "Operation Hiraas Pass," which will commence on October 1.
In line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s initiatives to foster a healthy society, various ministries and state institutions are actively identifying measures to enhance community health, safety, and security. The defence ministry is particularly focused on ensuring the full implementation of laws and regulations designed to protect individuals and their property.
The defence ministry oversees the authorisation of hazardous chemical imports for various purposes, as well as the storage of these chemicals. It has the authority to inspect hazardous chemical storage facilities to ensure compliance with the law. While the ministry acknowledges that the storage of hazardous chemicals is permissible within legal parameters, there have been reports of regulatory violations by some individuals. As such, the ministry will conduct a public awareness campaign in designated zones starting October 1, to inspect chemical storage facilities, ensure adherence to regulations regarding the import, handling, and storage of hazardous chemicals.
The ministry has expressed concerns that failure to comply with regulations could lead to irreparable harm. It noted that a significant quantity of hazardous chemicals has been stored in residential areas of Male' City, although such storage has been prohibited since a tragic fire occurred years ago. As a result, chemical warehouses in Male' have since been relocated to Thilafushi, Kaafu Atoll.