MMMOCL Names Gundavali Metro Station Ginger Cat Chief Feline Officer

The Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd (MMMOCL) conferred the honorary title of 'Chief Feline Officer' (CFO) on a ginger cat that routinely patrols the entrance of Gundavali station on Mumbai's Metro Line 7 (Red Line).

The playful appointment came after commuter Sandesh Samant photographed the cat and messaged the metro operator, jokingly suggesting that the unpaid station guardian receive an official designation. MMMOCL responded by announcing the title in jest, noting that the feline's unofficial duties include station inspections and keeping an eye on passengers from its vantage point near the station entrance.

An MMMOCL official confirmed that while the title was created in good humour, the cat appeared to take its responsibilities seriously. The official also addressed commuter concerns regarding strays, explaining that animals such as cats, dogs, and monkeys frequently seek temporary shelter in the cool stairwells of the metro network, coming and going rather than remaining permanently.

The gesture was welcomed by commuters and animal welfare advocates. Animal advocate Sonal Ramnathkar praised the light-hearted move as a rare positive highlight for urban street animals, hoping metro authorities would keep water handy for the cat.

While the identity, age, and sex of the Gundavali station cat remain unknown, ceremonial appointments of felines have historical precedents globally, including Tama at Kishi railway station in Japan and Larry the cat at 10 Downing Street in the United Kingdom.

MMMOCL noted on social media platform X that the new executive has settled into the role smoothly, adding that its performance has been "purrfect."