WAMCO employee in diesel inhalation incident shifted out of ICU

The WAMCO employee who was hospitalized after inhaling diesel during a refuelling incident in Gaafu Alifu Dhiyadhoo has been transferred from the intensive care unit (ICU) to a room following an improvement in his condition.

The incident occurred on December 12, while the employee was transferring diesel into a generator. During the process, diesel entered his lungs, causing severe breathing difficulties.

The injured employee has been identified as Ibrahim Shah, 37, a resident of Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi.

He was initially taken to Gemanafushi Health Centre for emergency treatment and later transferred to Villingili Hospital. Due to the seriousness of his condition, he was subsequently transferred to Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male’.

Speaking to Mihaaru News, Ibrahim’s wife said his condition has shown slight improvement and that he has now been moved to a room.

However, she said doctors have advised that visitors are still not allowed, as there is a risk of infection which could worsen his condition and require him to be readmitted to the ICU.

“He can now speak a little, but he still has difficulty breathing. He struggles to breathe when he walks,” she said.

She added that WAMCO has been providing support to the family following the incident, and that a WAMCO staff member visits the hospital every morning to receive updates on Ibrahim’s condition.

Earlier, WAMCO Managing Director Mujuthaba Jaleel said that proper refuelling ramps and safety arrangements were in place at the power plant where the incident occurred. He said the employee was attempting to speed up the work at the time of the accident.