Haridwar to close all meat shops in the city

All butcher shops in the Haridwar municipal area will be relocated outside municipal limits as authorities implement a resolution passed by the municipal corporation last year. The move will make the entire city free of butcher shops, though non-vegetarian items will remain available outside the restricted zone, a TOI report stated.

Majority of shops operating without licences

Around 100 butcher shops currently operate in the Haridwar municipal area, mainly in Jwalapur and Jagjeetpur. Only a few have valid licences, while the rest of the city remains a designated 'dry zone' where the sale of meat, non-vegetarian food, and alcohol is prohibited.

New shops being built in Sarai village

Haridwar municipal commissioner Nandan Kumar told The Times of India, "We have nearly completed the construction of meat shops in Sarai village. So far, 60 shops have been built, and those with valid licences will be relocated there. The remaining illegal shops will be sealed. All butchers have been informed about the relocation."

Residents raised concerns over hygiene and waste disposal

Local residents have been demanding the relocation of the Jwalapur meat market, citing poor hygiene and improper waste disposal. Similar complaints were made against chicken shops operating in residential areas without permits. Authorities believe that shifting the shops will improve sanitation in the city and help control the stray dog problem.