Demolition of old Arabiyya School building begins

The demolition work of the old Arabiyya School building commenced today.

The Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works stated that the building is being demolished because it is no longer in a safe condition for public use.

The government has decided to demolish the structure and develop the land into a parking zone and a park.

During a meeting with the residents of  Machchangolhi last night, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said that developing a park on the approximately 11,000 square feet of land would benefit children from nearby schools. The President also noted that the park would be designed to accommodate parents waiting for their children near the school.

He stated that the work would be completed before the start of the upcoming month of Ramadan.

The seven-story building, which began use 12 years ago in 2013, had developed severe cracking in its supporting pillars. Consequently, the building was declared unsafe for students, and the school was relocated in January 2023.

Following the relocation, the building was used partially as a warehouse for the Election Commission and the Ministry of Education's assets, while the remaining section housed the Scout Association and the Cadet Office. All these areas have now been vacated.

The Local Government Ministry has been demolishing old buildings that are dilapidated and unusable. Ma. Rabeeuvilla, Orchid Plaza, New Plaza, and House Plaza have already been demolished. The Ministry also stated that the building that most recently housed the Criminal Court in Malé will also be demolished very soon.