LAHORE: Tuesday’s intermittent rain not only inundated a number of city roads but also affected the business at the seven sacrificial animal sale points.

Shahpur Kanjran, the biggest of the sale points, looked more like a lake than the animal business hub, forcing the sellers and buyers to rush towards Multan Road and stand under open sky. Some people took shelter under the shades of shops around.

Police and town officials on duty forced the sellers to go back to their allotted places instead of disrupting the traffic flow on the main road, leading to exchange of harsh words. “The places we have been allotted are full of rainwater. How can we sell our animals and save them from various diseases that can erupt due to rain,” Munir told Dawn.

A police official near the entry area of the sale point said: “We are requesting them not to come on the road as it not only creates traffic congestion but also causes a law and order situation,” he said.

Many traders were trying to raise the level of floor and platform of the small cattle pens. “For the last two hours, we are raising the floor and platform of our cattle pens by putting soil. The government has promised to provide all facilities but you can see no official has come to our rescue,” trader Muhammad Akram complained.

He said they were afraid any epidemic could break out in such weather conditions. Asked whether veterinary officials from the livestock department visited them to vaccinate their animals, he replied in negative.

A number of buyers were seen leaving the area or trying to make a quick bargain. They expected slight reduction in the animal prices due to rain but had to return disappointed.

The situation was not much different at the Saggian Bridge cattle market, where the traders were trying to cope with the showers.

Livestock Deputy District Officer Dr Rahat Ali said his teams had already set up a camp to treat the sick animals. He said he would advise the teams to visit each cattle pen one by one and administer medicines to the affected animals.

Raiwind Assistant Commissioner/Iqbal Town Administrator Mr Shahzad said the rainwater couldn’t be drained out through de-watering and other machines alone. “It is only possible once the rain stops,” he added.

ROADS: The rain inundated several roads and intersections, disrupting the routine business of the city. Lakshmi, Qadhafi Stadium and many low-lying areas were affected and there were traffic issues.

Officials of Wasa and LWMC remained busy in draining out the rainwater. DCO Muhammad Usman cancelled Eid holidays of the five assistant commissioners, nine town municipal officers, health EDO, DOs, DDOs, entomologists, public health officials and field officials deputed on dengue-related duties.

“Since the ongoing rains have increased chances of dengue virus spread, the CDGL has cancelled holidays of the officials concerned,” says a spokesman.

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2015

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