First state-run deco chamber opens in Guraidhoo

The Maldives’ first state run decompression chamber, Senahiya Hyperbaric Center, has opened in Th. Guraidhoo.

The deco chamber, built with grant aid from Japan, was inaugurated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during a visit to Guraidhoo on Friday.

President Muizzu said that similar deco chambers will be established in Addu City, Fuvahmulah City, GA. Villingili, AA. Rasdhoo, Thinadhoo City, and Male’ City within the next six months, thereby expanding access to critical diving-related healthcare services nationwide.

Deco chambers are critical to the safety and health of commercial divers. These chambers play an essential role in managing decompression sickness, a condition that can occur when divers ascend too quickly from underwater.

The chamber is an airtight vessel where pressure and oxygen levels can be controlled. They are primarily used for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and decompression treatment. In commercial diving, they ensure divers safely transition to surface pressure levels without the health risks associated with rapid decompression.

The Maldives has deco chambers in four resorts; Bandos Maldives, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, Kuramathi Maldives, and Kandima Maldives.

The one in Guraidhoo marks the first state-run deco chamber.