Kochi: In view of the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease in various parts of the state, district collector P.I Sheikh Pareeth has formed a special squad to inspect meat shops and abattoirs in Ernakulam. The special squad consisting of officials from Animal Welfare, RTO, Motor Vehicle and police departments will conduct regular raids at the entry points to the district.
They have been asked to prevent transportation of cattle from other places and also to take extra care while examining animals. The officials will also inspect all licenced abattoirs functioning in panchayat areas. All animals will be subject to detailed medical examination before being slaughtered.
Despite the state government’s ban on transportation of cattle from other places and the order for closure of abattoirs, slaughtering is still rampant in the district.The district collector convened a meeting to discuss the situation in view of the scare following the outbreak of foot and mouth disease. With Xmas and New Year season round the corner, when the demand for meat is more, the authorities are keeping a watch over slaughterhouses and meat outlets.
