ISLAMABAD: The capital administration has imposed a ban on sale and purchase of sacrificial animals in sectors, sources told Dawn on Friday.

Officials of the capital administration said the influx of sacrificial animals on roads, greenbelts and empty plots in sectors might cause contagious diseases, traffic accidents, injuries to people and obstruct traffic flow.

I-12 has been designated as sacrificial animals market, the officials added.

The ban was imposed by District Magistrate Islamabad Hamza Shafqat.

Although the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has designated an area in I-12 as cattle market, certain sellers move animals in bulk to sectors in search of higher profits, the officials said.

This influx of sacrificial animals on roads, greenbelts, and empty plots in various sectors is not only a health hazard but also hindrance to smooth traffic flow and cause of accidents.

Keeping in view this risk, the district magistrate has not only prohibited sale and purchase of sacrificial animals but also their movement and presence in sectors.

The ban has been imposed with immediate effect and will remain in force for a period of 25 days, the officials said.

Separate teams have also been constituted that will ensure the the ban is implemented in letter and spirit.

Similarly, assistance has also been sought from the police, especially those deployed at pickets, to keep an eye on the movement of animals and take action against the ban violators.

Published in Dawn, August 4th, 2018