The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has issued a directive to the Male' City Council, ordering the transfer of the pet care facility, "Olhuhiyaa," to the ministry. Located on a 5,000 sqft plot in Hulhumale' Phase II, the facility was inaugurated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on November 2.
The development of this modern pet care facility was initiated by the ministry and contracted to the city council. However, the ministry sent a letter to the council, demanding the handover of the facility, citing the council's failure to fulfil its responsibilities as outlined in the contract.
The agreement signed between the ministry and the council indicates that the council is responsible for transporting stray cats to the facility, with plans for their transportation clearly outlined. However, the ministry emphasised that the Male' City Council has not undertaken the necessary tasks to ensure the facility's operational readiness. To address these issues and delays, the ministry reported holding extensive discussions with the council.
In response, Male' City Council announced plans to begin transporting stray cats to the facility. The ministry also revealed that it had provided guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOPs), plans, and recommendations to the council. Despite this, no response has been received. The ministry has also issued a warning against taking cats to the facility without following the established guidelines and regulations.