Azim: Govt. buildings also on the verge of collapse; no budget to address the issue

Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim, on Sunday, citing privately owned and government-owned buildings in the Maldivian capital being on the verge of collapse, states there is no way to address the issue at present.

In Malé, buildings are usually constructed encroaching two to three feet into roads. This has led to accidents where parts of worn-down buildings have collapsed onto the road.

Just recently, a person was injured after the balcony of a home in Sosun Magu collapsed onto the street.

Another significant safety concern is the widespread installation of air conditioning outdoor units facing the street, often without any protective measures.

When questioned by Sun regarding these issues, Mayor Azim said the responsibility to demolish buildings in worn-down conditions lies with their respective owners. He added that the Malé City Council engages in discussions with the owners of such buildings regarding their demolition.

However, the Mayor emphasized that it is not only privately owned buildings that are on the verge of collapse, but also government-owned buildings.

“It is not just privately owned buildings, there are government-owned buildings in that state too. Many government buildings are completely worn down and on the verge of collapse. We have requested multiple times to demolish these places,” he said.

Azim, noting that worn-down buildings can be demolished by the Council with the approval of their owners, stated that the Council, however, lacks the necessary budget for it.

“The City Council lacks the budget for it. The budget approved by the government for the Council this year MVR 23 million less. Hence, how can the Council undertake this work?” he questioned.

The Mayor affirmed that, despite the financial constraints, the City Council is making every effort within its capacity to address the issue.