Health Protection Agency (HPA) has stated no council outside the Greater Male' region has been ordered or instructed to change the operating hours of businesses.
HPA made the statement after Addu City Council issued an order stating food outlets and other businesses in Addu can only operate between 0600hrs and 1800hrs. The order states delivery services can be provided until 2200hrs upon seeking permission from the ward office, while 24-hour businesses that wish to extend their operating hours beyond the specified time must seek a permit from the ward office.
However, HPA stated no council outside the Greater Male' region has been ordered to suspend operations of restaurants and cafes or to change operating hours of businesses. The agency urged councils to abide by the instructions given by the regional health taskforces established in respective regions.
Meanwhile, Spokesperson of National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) Mohamed Mabrook Azeez also revealed the decision by Addu City Council to change business hours was taken without consulting NEOC.