Haridraw Municipal Corporation Implements Citywide Raw Meat Ban Ahead of Ardh Kumbh Mela
In a significant move, the Haridwar Municipal Corporation board has officially approved a proposal to prohibit the sale of raw meat across all municipal limits. This decision comes in preparation for the upcoming Ardh Kumbh Mela scheduled for next year, marking a major step in the city's regulatory framework.
Extension of Existing Restrictions
The new resolution expands upon current bylaws that already forbid the sale and consumption of meat, liquor, and eggs within a 5-kilometer radius of Har Ki Pauri, the city's primary bathing ghat. Officials confirmed on Monday that this restriction will now cover the entire municipal area, creating a uniform policy.
This development follows recent reports indicating that such a decision was imminent, as cited by Mayor Kiran Jaisal. The move is seen as part of broader efforts to maintain cleanliness and order during the large-scale religious gathering.
Relocation Plans and Unresolved Issues
To accommodate affected vendors, approximately 56 shops have been constructed in the Sarai area on the city's outskirts, where meat sellers are proposed to be relocated. However, the fate of restaurants and hotels serving cooked non-vegetarian food remains undecided, with officials noting that this issue will be discussed in future meetings.
Municipal Commissioner Nandan Kumar outlined the next steps, stating that the bylaws will be formally notified through a gazette publication. Following this, objections will be invited and heard, with an open auction of the shops in Sarai village to follow.
Dissent and Livelihood Concerns
The proposal was not met with unanimous approval. While some residents have welcomed the ban as a measure to promote a cleaner city, councillors from Jwalapur expressed significant concerns. During the board meeting on Monday, independent councillor Ahsan Ansari highlighted potential livelihood issues, estimating that over 100 businesses could be impacted.
Ansari also raised practical questions about the relocation plan, pointing out a mismatch between the number of affected meat sellers and the limited available shops. He questioned the feasibility of moving markets far from existing demand centers, particularly near municipal boundaries, which could disrupt local economies.
Official Responses and Additional Measures
Mayor Kiran Jaisal described the decision as a "landmark achievement" and assured that concerns raised by councillors would be addressed. The municipal board also approved new rules on livestock and pet management, making registration mandatory for those keeping more than five milch animals within city limits.
Additionally, pet dog registration has been made compulsory, with penalties imposed for keeping banned breeds. These measures are part of a comprehensive approach to urban management in Haridwar.
The citywide raw meat ban represents a pivotal shift in Haridwar's regulatory landscape, balancing religious preparations with economic and social considerations as the Ardh Kumbh Mela approaches.
