Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has confirmed that the catheterisation laboratory (Cath Lab) at Addu Equatorial Hospital is expected to become operational within the next four months.

The announcement was made in response to a written question submitted by Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan Marzooq regarding the status of the facility.

In his written reply, the Minister stated that 98 per cent of the work related to installing the required machinery has already been completed. With preparations nearing completion, the hospital has initiated the process of recruiting a party to operate and maintain the Cath Lab.

According to the Minister, the service will be handed over to the selected bidder following a formal evaluation process.

To support this process, the Ministry of Finance and Planning has issued a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from parties interested in managing and operating the Cath Lab for a five-year period. Interested applicants must submit their EOIs by 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

Following the EOI stage, shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit detailed proposals. Once the operator is finalised, the Ministry expects the Cath Lab to commence operations within the four-month timeframe outlined by the Health Minister.