The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has ordered the immediate suspension of all fibre-related activities at Hulhumalé Harbour, setting a deadline of 12:00hrs on 18 January for work to cease or be relocated to designated areas.
The directive follows observations of fibre work being carried out on marine vessels berthed at the harbour, raising concerns over environmental protection and public safety.
HDC said such activities pose risks to the marine environment and disrupt other harbour users. The corporation warned that failure to comply with the directive by the stipulated deadline will result in joint enforcement action with the Marine Police and other relevant authorities.
The move is in line with the Regulation on Health and Safety Standards in Fibre Workplaces, which came into effect in February 2025. The regulation prohibits activities such as smoking, eating, and drinking within fibre workspaces in order to minimise occupational and environmental hazards.
HDC has urged all parties involved to strictly adhere to the regulations, stressing the importance of safeguarding public safety and protecting the marine environment.