Operation launched to inspect chemical warehouses

Defence ministry of Thursday announced a special operation aimed at ensuring the safe storage of hazardous chemicals imported into the Maldives.

This initiative comes as part of the government's ongoing effort to regulate the handling of chemicals and prevent any risks associated with improper storage.

The defence ministry has been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the storage and management of chemicals that are imported for various purposes, ranging from industrial use to other sectors.

While the importation of chemicals is permitted under Maldivian law, the ministry highlighted concerns about irregularities in the handling and storage of these substances, which have prompted the need for stricter enforcement.

In a statement, the defence ministry emphasised that unsafe storage of hazardous chemicals poses a significant risk to public health and safety.

It warned that failure to enforce the laws and regulations governing chemical storage could expose the Maldivian population to potentially irreversible harm. 

To address this, the ministry is utilising its regulatory authority to inspect chemical storage facilities across the country.

The inspections will ensure that these facilities are adhering to safety protocols and managing the chemicals according to established regulations. 

As part of this initiative, the ministry plans to implement a zoned programme starting next month. The programme will target key areas where chemicals are stored and ensure that all facilities are compliant with safety standards.

The ministry reiterated that the storage of chemicals within city limits is strictly prohibited.

In 2019, a fire in a chemical warehouse prompted authorities to relocate all chemical storage facilities to Thilafushi, an industrial island. Despite this, there have been occasional reports of illegal chemical storage within the city, which the Ministry is keen to address as part of its broader regulatory operation.