MULTAN, Oct 18: Fifty three veterinary officers of the Muzaffargarh Livestock and Dairy Development Department have not been paid salaries for four months.

Under its support services project for livestock farmers, the Punjab government had appointed 53 veterinary officers on one year contract in the livestock and dairy development department a year back.

After the expiry of the contract on June 30, 2006, the department high-ups had verbally asked them to continue their services as extension in the project was due.

When contacted, Dr Saeed Akhtar Malik, District Officer Livestock and Dairy Development Department, Muzaffargarh, said contract letters and salaries would be issued and decision on the project would be taken after a meeting.