The  Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works has initiated the demolition of three disused buildings in Malé City, citing serious safety concerns arising from their severely deteriorated condition.

This decision was taken following an assessment of the risk these structures posed to public safety. The buildings selected for demolition, Orchid Plaza, New Plaza, and House Plaza are all situated in the Maafannu ward of the capital. As confirmed by the Ministry, demolition will commence with Orchid Plaza.

In a statement to state media, the Minister for Cities, Local Government and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar, noted that the demolition process would be undertaken with care to minimise disruption to residents in the surrounding area. He emphasised that the work would be completed within a reasonable timeframe, in line with public safety and urban management priorities.

The Minister further explained that the buildings had originally been constructed using iron, and therefore the demolition would require the use of both electricity and gas cutters. He highlighted the importance of implementing stringent safety measures throughout the process. In addition, he stated that demolition activities would not be carried out during late-night hours, in consideration of the residential setting, and reassured the public that all efforts would be made to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

According to the Ministry, demolition work is already underway. The buildings had previously sustained fire damage, rendering them structurally unsound and unsuitable for any form of public use or access.

Upon completion of the Orchid Plaza demolition, the cleared site will serve as the operational space for dismantling New Plaza.