Male' City Council spent nearly MVR 32,000 on rat control program that killed 80 rats

The Male' City Council says it spent nearly MVR 32,000 last month on a rat control program that resulted in the death of 80 rats across the capital.

The council launched the campaign on December 16, targeting areas with frequent public complaints about rat infestations.

In a response to Sun under the Right to Information Act, the council said pest control poison had been placed at 49 locations. As of January 4, a total of 80 rats had died under the program.

According to the council, MVR 31,978.40 was spent on the initiative. This includes MVR 30,596 for the purchase of rat poison and MVR 1,382.40 for printing the banner used at the launch event.

Council has started an initiative to control rat infestation in Malé City. Pest control medicines will be placed in market areas and congested locations to improve public health and cleanliness. #SaafuNalaMale pic.twitter.com/08k4aQ6xX7

— Malé City Council (@MaleCitymv) December 16, 2025

Speaking at the launch, Mayor Adam Azim said the campaign began in the market area and would expand to other parts of the city. He said council staff would carry out the work, placing poison in targeted locations to reduce the rat population and improve cleanliness.

The council also said it would be responsible for removing dead rats during the campaign. The initiative is part of the Male' City Council’s broader public health policy.

Mayor Azim, several councillors and council officials attended the launch event.