Patna Municipal Corporation Initiates Comprehensive Geotagging Survey for Meat and Fish Shops
The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a citywide survey to geotag all permanent and temporary meat and fish shops, following directives from the Urban Development and Housing Department (UDHD). This initiative aims to regulate these establishments and ensure compliance with hygiene and operational standards.
Survey and Licensing Drive Underway
Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena announced on Sunday that teams have begun tracking these shops across the city. He stated that approximately 200 temporary and permanent meat shops are currently operating under the PMC's jurisdiction. All identified shops across the six circles have been instructed to apply for a licence by Wednesday, with non-compliance leading to removal.
Meena emphasized that street vendors are also being monitored and will face similar actions if they fail to adhere to the guidelines. The PMC is finalizing a new regulatory framework, including a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for cleanliness and operations of meat and fish shops within the municipality.
Data Reveals Licensing Gap
Preliminary data from the PMC shows a significant disparity between licensed and unlicensed shops. For instance, the New Capital circle has 10 licensed meat shops, while Patliputra has seven. This highlights the urgent need for the survey to bridge this gap and bring all establishments under regulatory oversight.
Hygiene and Visibility Standards Mandated
According to the UDHD directive, meat and fish shops must maintain high hygiene standards and ensure proper waste disposal. Additionally, shops are required to install barriers such as curtains or tinted glass to prevent meat products from being visible to the public, promoting a cleaner and more discreet urban environment.
This proactive measure by the PMC is expected to enhance public health and safety, while streamlining the management of meat and fish retail in Patna.
