Northeast Desk, 25th September: The Deputy Commissioner of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, has issued a strict executive order to improve hygiene in meat shops and curb the spread of zoonotic diseases in the capital city. The order, dated September 24, follows concerns over meat vendors selling livestock and poultry in unhygienic conditions at roadside stalls and markets, posing serious public health risks.
To address the issue, the District Magistrate has outlined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all butchers and meat shops in the city, including:
- Mandatory antemortem and post-mortem inspections of animals by registered veterinarians.
- Deep refrigerators required to maintain proper meat hygiene and texture.
- Adequate water supply near all meat vendors for sanitation.
- Ban on open roadside sales of meat products.
The order further prohibits the slaughtering of animals on roadsides and mandates the establishment of proper drainage systems in meat shops. Vendors must also possess and display valid Trading Licenses.
The directive aims to safeguard food safety and prevent the transmission of diseases like anthrax, leptospirosis, cysticercosis, and brucellosis. Local veterinary and food safety officials will ensure strict compliance with the new regulations to improve public health standards across Itanagar.
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