Special task force established to combat severe weather threats across Maldives
A special task force has been established to assist the public and mitigate potential damages caused by severe weather forecasts for most parts of the country.
The task force comprises the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), the Maldives Police Service (MPS), and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). A joint operation center has been set up at MNDF’s main headquarters, Bandaarakoshi from where the task force will operate.
Speaking to the media, Chief of Defense Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy said adverse weather conditions are expected to continue until January 18. Therefore, the joint operation center will be active around the clock during this period. MNDF will be on alert at all four area command centers as well, he disclosed.
Hilmy said arrangements have been made for the easy issuance of sandbags in three areas across Male’ as flooding is expected in Male’ due to heavy rainfall. Sandbags will be available from Rasfannu, Kudakudhinge Bageecha as well as from near the King Salman Mosque.
“The President is closely monitoring the arrangements and giving instructions. He has instructed to mitigate the damages caused to the people as much as possible,” he said.
The Chief of Defense Force further noted that sandbagging has been carried out in necessary areas and pump stations are ready for use.
Speaking at the press conference, the Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau said the police are on alert across the Maldives to assist the public. In islands where there is no police presence, the councils are being given the necessary instructions and assistance, he noted.
The CP said the damage caused by adverse weather can be mitigated by cooperating with the measures taken and instructions given by the authorities. He urged the public to adhere to the instruction given to avoid the use of heavy vehicles on Male’ City roads in flood conditions.
“We acknowledge that the public will face difficulties in these situations. However, we take these measures to minimize the damage,” the CP said.
The Chief Executive of NDMA, Hisaan Hussain said the authority was prepared for the upcoming weather in collaboration with relevant agencies. While relevant plans are being made to provide assistance to the public, necessary instructions are being given to councils, he said.
Hisaan also urged the public to follow the instructions given by the authorities and take personal responsibility to minimize the damage.
