The State of Emergency is Officially Lifted in Seychelles After Recent Crisis
Thu, 07 December 2023
On December 7, Seychelles officially lifted the state of emergency declared nearly 12 hours earlier in response to a powerful explosion and subsequent flooding on Mahé. This pivotal decision signals a significant move towards returning to normalcy and underscores confidence in the ongoing efforts by authorities to restore order, ensuring the safety of both citizens and visitors.
The Tourism Department has confirmed that no tourists have been harmed, despite some establishments in the Beau Vallon and Bel Ombre regions having sustained damages.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, stated, "We want to reassure the public, especially our visitors boarding a flight to our islands, that Seychelles remains a safe destination. The government has taken extensive measures to address any potential hazards and to restore normalcy to the affected areas. Our dedicated first responders and emergency services have been working around the clock to mitigate the impact of the disaster and provide assistance to those in need.”
Throughout the day, various agencies collaborated to safeguard the well-being of residents and tourists in Seychelles following the recent explosion. The National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC), working with government agencies and the Seychelles Red Cross, conducted thorough assessments of affected areas, affirming the safety of Seychelles.
Earlier on December 7, President Wavel Ramkalawan declared a state of emergency, urging non-essential workers to stay home due to the explosion's impact. Originating from a construction and quarrying company, the incident leveled buildings and damaged homes along Mahé's east coast. The Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Seychelles in Bulgaria, Maxim Behar, advised Bulgarian tourists to stay indoors until further notice for their safety.
Despite challenges, Seychelles International Airport remains operational, and ferry services between the islands continue for visitors. However, the Seychelles General Consulate in Bulgaria emphasizes the importance of adhering to local authorities' guidance during this critical period.
As Seychelles faces this crisis, the international community, including Bulgaria, stands in solidarity with the nation, offering support and assistance. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Seychelles as they navigate through these challenging times.
