LAHORE, Feb 25 (APP):The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) sealed a milk shop, arrested its owner and imposed fines exceeding Rs 500,000 on multiple Sehri points during a crackdown carried out across the provincial capital in line with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s zero-compromise policy on food quality.
According to a spokesperson, PFA enforcement teams inspected 40 Sehri points in Ravi Town, Ali Town, Lahori Gate, Darbar, Lake City and Nishtar Town. Food safety teams, assisted by the bike squad, remained active during Sehri hours to ensure strict monitoring of food outlets.
A renowned lassi shop was sealed after laboratory analysis confirmed adulteration in its milk. An FIR was lodged and the owner was taken into custody. Besides, fines amounting to more than Rs500,000 were imposed on 15 food points, while 10 others were served improvement notices over various violations.
Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid said the action was taken after repeated non-compliance despite prior warnings. He said violations included poor storage arrangements, dirty freezers, rusty utensils, insect infestation, open drains, unhygienic washing areas and foul-smelling environments. Mandatory records and employees’ medical certificates were also found missing at several outlets. He said inspections of vendors selling Nihari, Paya, Hareesa and Murgh Channay during Sehri were continuing, adding that food points were being monitored throughout the holy month to curb health hazards.
The DG maintained that irrespective of size, every food outlet remained on the PFA’s radar. He vowed to eliminate adulteration and counterfeit mafias across Punjab, stating that comprehensive measures were being implemented to align food preparation and delivery processes with international standards.