In a decisive move to enhance public health, the Deputy Commissioner of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, has implemented a stringent executive order aimed at improving hygiene standards in meat shops throughout the capital. Dated September 24, this initiative addresses serious concerns regarding meat vendors operating in unsanitary conditions, which have been linked to the potential spread of zoonotic diseases.
The District Magistrate has established comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that all butchers and meat shops must adhere to, including:
- Mandatory veterinary inspections—both antemortem and post-mortem—of all animals.
- Installation of deep refrigerators to maintain optimal meat hygiene and texture.
- Ensuring an adequate water supply for sanitation at all meat vending locations.
- Prohibiting the open roadside sale of meat products.
The order also bans the slaughtering of animals on roadsides and requires meat shops to implement proper drainage systems. Vendors are required to possess and display valid Trading Licenses as part of the compliance measures.
This directive is a proactive effort to safeguard food safety and mitigate the risk of diseases such as anthrax, leptospirosis, cysticercosis, and brucellosis. Local veterinary and food safety authorities will monitor compliance closely to ensure that public health standards in Itanagar are significantly improved.