A major fire broke out at the Housing Ministry building on Ameenee Magu early Monday morning, causing authorities to relocate nearby residents to social centres for their safety.

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chief Executive Hisaan Hasan confirmed the temporary relocation of affected residents in an interview with PSM. The NDMA also urged the public to call 115 for assistance if needed. An emergency evacuation centre has been set up at Social Centre.

The fire, which reportedly started between 0630 - 0645hrs has engulfed the entire building, which houses both the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Construction. Despite ongoing efforts, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has stated that the blaze remains uncontrolled.

Emergency teams have evacuated nearby buildings, and efforts are focused on preventing the fire from spreading further. Updates on the situation are expected as firefighting operations continue.