The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has provided temporary shelter to 37 people affected by a fire at Hiyaa Tower 5 in Hulhumalé Phase II.

The authority said the fire caused significant damage to the building’s main sewerage pipe, leaving toilets in several apartments unusable. The incident commander said sanitation facilities in some units were rendered inoperable due to the damage.

The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) is carrying out repair works to restore the damaged sewerage system. NDMA confirmed that residents from seven apartments in Hiyaa Tower 5 have been relocated to temporary accommodation following the incident.

Assessments are ongoing to identify the full extent of the damage and expedite repair works. Response involve coordination among multiple agencies, including the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Maldives Police Service, HDC, Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) and STELCO. HDC and relevant authorities are also investigating the cause of the fire.

The fire broke out at approximately 7:00 pm on Friday and was brought under control by the MNDF Hulhumalé Fire Station. NDMA confirmed that no injuries were reported.

NDMA has urged anyone requiring assistance related to the incident to contact its emergency hotline at 115.