A food kiosk is being built in front of the museum at the Hihthan Maizaan in a way which poses risks to a 200-year-old tree.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has now stopped the work as it was being carried out without permission. The Male' city council has also suspended the work.
Adhadhu reporters went to the area today and saw metal rods installed around the huge tree.
Metal rod near the tree. -- Photo: Mirash Nashim/ Adhadhu
The food kiosk in Hihthan Maizaan was awarded by the Male' city council. But it was awarded without the approval of the council.
The land was given to operate a food kiosk for 10 years. However, the price of the contract is unclear.
Former Heritage Minister Yumna Maumoon has expressed concern over changes to the environment in the area which could damage the tree.
"It is a very old tree. Such a beautiful, big tree should not be destroyed. It is also not right to build a cafe there in a way that obstructs the view of the museum. It is important to get the opinion of people who live in Male' when such projects are carried out," she said.
