TAXILA: The local administration along with cantonment board authorities and police took action against illegally established cattle markets, set up in various parts of Taxila and Wah on Thursday. Legal action was also taken against violators of Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).

A joint team led by Assistant Commissioner Mian Mohammad Faheem launched a crackdown against various cattle markets, illegally operating along GT Road in Taxila and Wah, adjacent to residential areas. Four markets were sealed and fines were imposed for violating health guidelines.

Mr Faheem said: “Such markets are not only against the law but also disrupt traffic. Gatherings and crowds have also been banned by the provincial government. Cattle markets are established every year by respective cantonment boards in Taxila and Wah; this year all allied facilities like provision of electricity, water, medical facilities, barbed wires and temporary pavements have provided by the boards, where proper safety measures regarding Covid-19 are observed. Directives have being issued to concerned officials of the local administration to ensure SOPs are being observed in all cattle markets and they are operating legally. Dealers have been instructed to take their animals to markets established by the administration.”

“The administration cannot allow any person or organisation to engage in illegal business activities in the area,” he added and asked people to follow SOPs to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2020