A significant power outage disrupted electricity across the Greater Malé region on Sunday afternoon, impacting key medical facilities including Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), Dharumavantha Hospital, and Hulhumalé Hospital. Despite the sudden blackout, all critical services remained operational, thanks to swift activation of backup power systems.
The outage commenced around 12:35 PM, affecting multiple areas within the capital, including major hospitals and the Maldives Blood Service building. Notably, Vilimalé Hospital was spared from the disruption. State Electric Company (STELCO) attributed the blackout to a technical issue, with reports suggesting generator overloads at the Hulhumalé powerhouse as a potential cause. By 1:45 PM, power had been restored to IGMH and Dharumavantha Hospital, while Hulhumalé Hospital continued to operate on backup generators .
In a statement, IGMH assured the public that essential services, including intensive care units and operating theatres, experienced no interruptions during the outage. Similarly, Hulhumalé Hospital maintained uninterrupted services through its backup power systems.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, currently on the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. Emphasizing the seriousness of the matter, he stated that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted electricity services and prevent future occurrences .
This event underscores the critical importance of robust emergency power systems in healthcare facilities, ensuring patient safety and continuity of care during unforeseen power disruptions.
