Fire at Hiyaa apartment cause significant damage

The MNDF Fire and Rescue Service has successfully brought under control a fire that broke out at an apartment in Hiyaa Tower 8, located in Hulhumalé Phase 2.

According to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), the incident was reported at approximately 13:2pm on Sunday afternoon. Following the alert, firefighters were immediately deployed to the scene, where they began efforts to contain and extinguish the fire, which was fully brought under control within a short while.

The fire originated in the kitchen of an apartment located on the 19th floor of the tower. MNDF confirmed that no injuries were reported, although the kitchen sustained varying levels of damage due to the blaze.

Several kitchen appliances and other items were damaged in the fire; however, the exact cause of the incident has not yet been established. Relevant authorities are continuing investigations into the matter.

Given that the Hiyaa flats comprise high-rise residential buildings with a large number of occupants, authorities have repeatedly urged residents to take necessary precautions to prevent fire-related incidents. Similar fires have occurred at the Hiyaa flats previously, with reports indicating that some were caused by discarded cigarette butts on balconies and electrical short circuits.

MNDF reiterated the importance of maintaining caution while cooking and ensuring the safe handling of flammable materials. Authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the property damage caused by the incident.