Government launches year-long project to control stray cat population

The government has launched a year-long national project to control the stray cat population, improve cleanliness in public areas and promote animal welfare.

The initiative, named “Project Baukaalo”, was launched on Sunday by Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam. Animal welfare is currently under the mandate of the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources.

The project will be implemented by the ministry in collaboration with organisations working in cat welfare, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and veterinary clinics. Agreements were signed with the participating parties on Sunday to carry out the programme.

Shiyam said the project was expected to change public attitudes towards cats and would also support efforts to improve operations at the government-developed cat shelter in Olhuhiya.

According to the ministry, one of the main objectives of the project is to control the stray cat population through humane methods while maintaining cleanliness and creating a safer environment for both people and animals.

A Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programme will be carried out under the project to control the cat population by preventing reproduction.

The programme will also provide veterinary treatment for cats and conduct awareness activities on responsible feeding and adoption.

The government said the initiative would seek to increase public awareness of animal welfare while addressing concerns associated with the growing number of stray cats in populated areas.

The number of stray cats in Malé has been a longstanding concern, including complaints about cleanliness in public areas. There have also been cases of cats being harmed over concerns about their presence on streets.

As part of its first 100-day commitments, the government established a cat facility in Hulhumalé as part of efforts to find a longer-term solution to the issue.

However, concerns have since been raised over the operation of the facility and the level of care provided to cats housed there. A number of cats have died at the facility, with concerns raised that some had not received adequate treatment.

As a result, concerns remain over the management of the stray cat population in the Greater Malé area.

The Fisheries Ministry has also recently said it is considering developing a separate island dedicated to cats.