A fire that broke out on Monday afternoon in the building housing Gaamagu Café has left 37 individuals in distress, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The affected include 22 Maldivians and 15 foreigners. The NDMA has announced it is actively working to provide humanitarian aid and temporary housing for those impacted.

The blaze, which was reported at approximately 2:47 p.m. local time, led to the evacuation of 56 people, comprising 50 foreigners and six Maldivians. The NDMA is focusing on ensuring safe accommodation for the displaced individuals.

In response to the fire, the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has reported that two women were hospitalized. One of the women, a 30-year-old migrant, has been discharged, while the condition of the other, a 48-year-old Maldivian woman, is improving.

The fire has severely damaged the building beyond repair and has also affected a neighboring structure. Firefighters faced significant challenges in controlling the blaze, resulting in extensive damage.

Authorities are continuing their efforts to address the aftermath and provide support to those affected by the incident.