PFA Takes Action Against Breakfast Eateries in Lahore

In a significant move to ensure food safety and hygiene standards, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has taken strict action against several breakfast eateries in Lahore. Early on Monday morning, PFA Director General Asim Javed led food safety teams to inspect various food outlets in the Temple Road and Thokar Niaz Baig areas. The inspections revealed alarming conditions that prompted the sealing of four eateries and the imposition of hefty fines on 21 others.

During the operation, a total of 42 breakfast points were checked. The findings were shocking, with the PFA sealing four establishments due to extremely poor hygiene practices. The total fines imposed amounted to Rs 625,000, a clear indication of the seriousness of the violations. According to Asim Javed, the closures were necessary as the owners had repeatedly ignored warnings and improvement notices.

The inspections uncovered a range of health hazards, including substandard storage practices, filthy freezers, rusty utensils, and a disturbing presence of insects. Even more concerning was the discovery of expired meat and rotten vegetables stored in freezers that were covered with mold. The conditions of the food preparation areas were equally alarming, with open drains, dirty washing areas, and foul odors reported. Additionally, essential records and employee medical certificates were found to be missing, raising further concerns about food safety.

Asim Javed emphasized the risks associated with food prepared using substandard ingredients, stating, "Food prepared with substandard ingredients can pose severe health risks." He reassured the public that regular checks are being conducted at all food points to mitigate health hazards. The DG also highlighted the ongoing efforts of food safety teams in Punjab to combat the mafia involved in food adulteration and fraud.

In a related development, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has also ramped up its efforts to tackle illegal commercial properties. On the same day, the LDA sealed 200 properties as part of its crackdown against commercial fee defaulters. Under the supervision of LDA Director General Tahir Farooq, teams conducted operations in various areas of the city, including Gulberg, Faisal Town, and New Muslim Town.

The operation resulted in the sealing of 36 properties in Gulberg and Faisal Town, 17 in New Muslim Town, and 27 in WAPDA Town, among others. Notably, 13 wedding halls and marquees in China Scheme Gujjarpura were sealed due to non-payment of commercial fees. The LDA had previously issued multiple notices to these properties before taking action.

These recent actions by the PFA and LDA highlight the importance of maintaining health and safety standards in food preparation and commercial operations. It serves as a reminder to both consumers and business owners about the critical need for compliance with regulations. As citizens, it is our responsibility to support these initiatives and report any violations we observe. Together, we can contribute to a healthier and safer community.