Home burnt, hopes too

Manama

A call to establish a shelter for men has been the talk of the hour among human and labourers’ rights activists in the country, it has emerged. This was stated after observing the tragic state of around 30 men, who were left homeless, after a blaze devastated their residence in Manama last week.In a press statement issued yesterday, Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) explained, “Flames engulfed a three storey building in Manama at 1AM on May 13. Luckily there were no fatalities but three men were injured when they frantically tried to escape.” “As a result of the fire, thirty of the residents were immediately displaced. Since there is no temporary accommodation available for men, twenty of the thirty men are sleeping on the roof of a nearby building. Theyare stranded after losing all their personal belongings including mattresses, documentation and cash. They no longer have any access to cooking facilities,” the society informed.It was also learnt MWPS and volunteers have readied for them short-term provision for basic meals at a nearby restaurant, distribution of emergency packs and basic medical attention. KIMS Hospital has also provided free follow-up medical attention for them.MWPS confirmed, “At present, it is not clear how the fire started. However, Capital General Secretariat (formerly known as Manama Municipality) has already taken action issuing a violation notice for demolition of the building’s remains.”Chairperson Marietta Dias said, “This highlights the urgent need for a men’s shelter and the need to enforce landlords’ responsibilities for providing safe and habitable accommodation.”“We are currently purchasing emergency items, which these workers are in need of such as basic clothing, food and mattresses. We would like to appeal to the public to contact us, should they wish to make any donations,” she added.For donations please contact either Marietta Dias 39452470, Neelaja Shortre 39861932.