Malé garage fire

On November 10, 2022, a fire occured in a garage in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. The fire resulted in the death of ten individuals, nine of whom were Indian nationals and one who was a Bangladeshi national. The incident drew significant attention to safety standards in Malé and prompted discussions about urban planning and regulatory measures in densely populated areas.
Event
The fire broke out in a garage situated in a residential area of Malé , which is known for its high population density and limited urban space. The victims were reported to have been living in accommodations above the garage. Eyewitness accounts and emergency services revealed the rapid spread of the fire, which left little time for escape. The tragedy highlighted the vulnerabilities associated with mixed-use buildings, where residential units are directly connected to commercial operations.
Among the 10 fatalities, nine were Indian nationals, and one was a Bangladeshi national. The victims were believed to be workers residing in Malé, underscoring the challenges faced by expatriate workers in the Maldives, including overcrowded and unsafe living conditions.
Aftermath
Government response
In the aftermath of the fire, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih pledged to take immediate action to relocate garages operating within the city to prevent similar tragedies. The government also announced a review of existing safety regulations and urban zoning policies to improve the safety of residents and workers in Malé.
Reactions
The incident sparked an outpouring of condolences from both local and international communities. It also led to calls for enhanced safety measures and stricter enforcement of building codes to ensure the well-being of residents and workers, particularly in high-risk areas.

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