LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to reduce reliance on government-run slaughterhouses and instead promote private, modern facilities to stop illegal slaughtering and ensure safe meat for citizens.
Under the new plan, private investors can register to set up modern slaughterhouses. Government-appointed veterinary doctors will supervise operations, and strict fines or jail terms will be imposed for violations.
Officials said the move comes in response to Lahore’s growing problem of illegal slaughtering and the sale of meat from sick or dead animals.
The city, with over 15 million residents, currently has only one official slaughterhouse at Shahpur Kanjran, Multan Road. In the past, Lahore had three facilities, but only one modern slaughterhouse was built decades ago. This shortage has forced many butchers to slaughter animals at homes or shops.
The new plan will see multiple private slaughterhouses established in Lahore. Over 90 veterinary doctors and meat specialists will be hired. Animals will undergo health checks before slaughter, and post-mortem examinations will ensure meat is safe. Diseased meat will be banned from sale.
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Punjab Local Government, the Livestock Department, and Punjab Food Authority are finalizing the policy. Director General Punjab Food Authority, Asim Javed, said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has instructed departments to ensure safe meat supply across the province.
“Legislation will be introduced to support the plan. With private sector cooperation, modern slaughterhouses will be set up, staffed with specialists and veterinary doctors. Pre- and post-slaughter inspections will be mandatory, and only healthy meat will reach markets,” he said.
Veterinary specialist Asif Sahi welcomed the initiative, saying it could end illegal slaughtering and provide safe meat to Punjab. However, expert Muhammad Saleem warned that without proper monitoring and packaging, illegal practices may continue.
The DG Punjab Food Authority also said strict laws against food adulteration are being drafted. Under the new rules, adulteration will become a non-bailable offence with heavy fines and strict punishments.
