The Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works has launched the demolition of three dilapidated buildings in Malé City, following expert assessments deeming them hazardous to public safety.
The buildings—Orchid Plaza, New Plaza, and House Plaza—are all located in the Maafannu ward and had remained abandoned for years, with significant structural deterioration. The demolition began with Orchid Plaza and is being carried out in phases.
Speaking to state media, Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar stated that the decision was made in response to escalating safety risks posed by the weakened structures, some of which had sustained prior fire damage. He stressed that the demolition process is being executed with strict safety protocols in place, including the use of electric and gas cutters due to the iron frameworks of the buildings.
“We are committed to ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding residents,” the Minister said. “Work will not take place during late-night hours, and the project will proceed at a reasonable pace to ensure both public safety and operational efficiency.”
According to the Ministry, Orchid Plaza’s demolition is already underway and, once cleared, the site will be used to facilitate the dismantling of the adjacent New Plaza. The buildings, long deemed unfit for occupation, had posed significant risks to pedestrians and nearby properties, prompting urgent action by the authorities.
The Ministry has assured the public that all works are being carried out in coordination with emergency response teams and urban planners to avoid unnecessary disturbances while advancing the city’s broader public safety and infrastructure renewal goals.
