The Ministry of Defence has revealed that 285 chemical storage facilities in the Greater Male' Region will be inspected as part of "Operation Hiraas Faas". The operation will take place from October 1 to 15.
Speaking to PSM News, Deputy Minister of Defence Fathimath Mizna Ali explained that the operation is part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s initiative to enhance the safety and security of the Maldivian society. She noted concerns about illegal chemical trading occurring in areas authorised for chemical storage and sales. She also said that the ministry receives frequent complaints about chemicals being sold in quantities exceeding the legal limits.
Additionally, Deputy Minister Mizna emphasised the risks associated with fires in locations storing hazardous chemicals, as such incidents can endanger nearby areas. She also stressed the importance of ensuring that chemicals are stored and traded in compliance with the laws and regulations of the country.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Faiz Rashad spoke in behalf of the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) Fire and Rescue Services. He highlighted that the ministry is taking steps to safeguard the public. He said that Operation Hiraas Faas marks the first phase of this effort. He also said that the operation focuses on two key objectives which include, identifying sites where chemicals are stored and traded illegally, and pinpointing buildings in the Greater Male' Region that are particularly vulnerable to fire hazards. The ministry has identified 285 warehouses in the region that will be inspected during the operation.
Additionally, Faiz said that the operation’s goal is to eventually extend inspections to the entire country. For now, he said that it will target warehouses in Male' City, Thilafushi, and Hulhumale', with the majority located in Thilafushi. He said that the inspections will be conducted from 0900 to 1600hrs daily during the operation’s two-week span, with participation from the Fire and Rescue Services, Maldives Police Service (MPS), MNDF Male' Area Command, and six other government agencies.
Operation Hiraas Faas will cover 10 zones in the Greater Male' Region. The ministry plans to compile a database of the findings and share the information with relevant institutions, once the operation is completed. The ministry also said that legal action will be taken against individuals found to be trading chemicals illegally.