President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu visited Dharubaaruge convention centre on Friday evening to assess the ongoing preparations for restarting operations of three government ministries whose offices were severely damaged in a Thursday morning fire.
The blaze ravaged the building housing the Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development and the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, while the adjacent “Green Building”—home to the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy—also suffered significant damage. Although property losses were extensive, officials have confirmed that no one was injured.
In the wake of the incident, the affected ministries suspended their services. Authorities have since decided to relocate these operations to Dharubaaruge in order to maintain the delivery of public services. During his visit, President Muizzu inspected the site, discussed progress with officials, and issued instructions to speed up the re-establishment of vital functions. According to Housing Minister Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed, the Ministry of Housing aims to resume its services by Sunday.
The temporary relocation to Dharubaaruge has, however, prompted the postponement of several previously scheduled events at the venue. Among those deferred are the official ceremony for Fishermen’s Day and the Rehendhi Awards ceremony, both of which will be rescheduled once the ministries’ operations are back on track.
As work continues at Dharubaaruge, authorities have pledged to complete the necessary arrangements as quickly as possible. In the meantime, government officials are focusing on restoring essential services, addressing logistical challenges, and ensuring that the public faces as little disruption as possible.
