The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has suspended fibre-related work being carried out in the Hulhumalé lagoon, citing concerns over potential environmental harm.

In a statement, HDC said it had identified fibre work being conducted on boats docked within the lagoon area. The corporation said such activities pose risks to the marine environment and surrounding ecosystem, prompting the decision to stop the work.

HDC has instructed those involved to cease operations or relocate the activity to an alternative, designated location before midnight on 18 January. The corporation said compliance with the announcement is required to prevent further environmental impact.

According to HDC, failure to halt the work by the deadline will result in enforcement action in collaboration with the Marine Police and other relevant authorities to ensure the activity is stopped.

Health and safety regulations governing fibre-related work were introduced in February 2025, outlining strict requirements for such operations. These include prohibitions on activities such as smoking and alcohol consumption at fibre manufacturing sites, aimed at ensuring worker safety and environmental protection.