KATHMANDU: Minister for Agriculture, Forests and Environment Geeta Chaudhary has directed local governments to effectively implement the Slaughterhouse and Meat Inspection Act, 1999, within the next three months.
Speaking at a discussion with mayors and representatives of local governments in the Kathmandu Valley on Friday, the minister urged them to immediately begin the necessary procedures to enforce the law within the stipulated timeframe.
Chaudhary said implementation of the Act is essential to ensure consumers’ right to safe, quality and inspected meat, noting that the issue is directly linked to public health.
She also pointed out that the Supreme Court has already issued a mandamus order directing the implementation of the Act, stressing that the federal, provincial and local governments must fulfil their respective responsibilities.
The minister said local governments, as the closest level of government to citizens, should play a leading role in managing slaughterhouses, monitoring meat shops, inspecting meat quality and conducting public awareness programmes.
Highlighting the need to regulate animal transportation, slaughtering procedures and meat distribution systems, Chaudhary said the Act provides sufficient flexibility to respect religious and cultural traditions.
The ministry also pledged to provide the necessary facilitation, coordination and technical support to assist local governments in implementing the law.
Comment