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ISLAMABAD, Jul 07 (APP):Islamabad Food Authority carried out a 10-day inspection campaign during Muharram to ensure the safety of food and drinks served at public sabeels and langar distribution points across the Federal Capital.
Talking to APP, Deputy Director Operations of IFA, Dr Tahira Siddique said that the campaign aimed to make sure that all offerings during the religious gatherings were hygienic and safe for public consumption.
She said that the inspection report covering activities from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram revealed that a total of 105 special inspections were conducted across the federal capital during this period.
Out of these, 69 inspections were carried out at sabeel and langar points, while 36 checks were made at different catering setups associated with the religious events. These inspections were part of a targeted operation aimed at monitoring food quality, hygiene practices, and the overall cleanliness of the serving areas.
As per the report, two locations were sealed due to poor food quality, while fines amounting to Rs. 195,000 were imposed on eight outlets for violations. The food authority teams also discarded 87 kilograms of substandard food materials during the campaign.
According to Dr. Tahira Siddique, Deputy Director of the Islamabad Food Authority, a special inspection team was formed ahead of Muharram to carry out the operations. The team conducted surprise visits across the city without prior notice to ensure the quality and safety of the distributed food and beverages.
She said that the food safety teams paid close attention to hygiene practices being followed during the preparation and distribution of langar and beverages. This included checking storage conditions, cooking practices, water sources, food handling methods, and cleanliness of utensils and surroundings.
Dr. Tahira added that all inspections were carried out without discrimination under the instructions of the Director of Food Authority. The goal, she said, was to ensure categorically safe food provision on the day of Ashura, when large numbers of people gather and consume food and drinks offered at various religious points.
The inspection teams were equipped with food safety kits and followed standard operating procedures during each visit. Food handlers at inspected locations were also advised on safety protocols and were issued on-the-spot guidance on improving hygiene standards.
A representative of the food authority said that many locations had made efforts to maintain clean and safe food practices, but where violations were found, immediate action was taken to prevent health risks. He said public health remained a top priority, especially during large religious gatherings when thousands rely on free food and water being offered.
Dr. Tahira said that the inspection drive will help build awareness among the public and organizers about the importance of food safety during religious events. She also mentioned that the food authority plans to continue monitoring such events in the future to ensure better standards are maintained.
The Islamabad Food Authority has urged event organizers, volunteers, and catering service providers to cooperate with safety teams and take food safety seriously, especially during public events like Muharram.
The 10-day campaign was part of a broader initiative to ensure safe food practices during religious gatherings and prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.