This refers to the news report, ‘Food eateries in Punjab given deadline for cleanliness’ (Nov 21). DG Punjab Food Authority has warned the owners of eateries in Punjab to maintain cleanliness and hygienic conditions at their outlets by December 15. He has also directed that seminars should be held and informative pamphlets distributed among the owners of these places for awareness purposes. One wonders why a deadline has been given to the owners as cleanliness of eateries is a continuous process for which no relaxation period should be allowed. All these places should comply with cleanliness standards at all times. In Saudi Arabia, extremely heavy fines are imposed on those who violate the traffic rules. As a result, the traffic flow in that country is the most orderly. The same applies to food business. The best remedy for defaulting outlets is sealing them, imposing heavy fines, and if required, awarding jail terms to the culprits.
Ayesha Mumtaz, Director Operations, Punjab Food Authority, created history by taking strict action against defaulting eateries. She rose to fame after raiding various restaurants and hotels in Punjab to ensure that good quality food was served and proper hygiene maintained. She sealed many restaurants without any fear and imposed fines on violators. She didn’t even spare foreign food chains operating in Pakistan. Her work has been highly appreciated by the people of Punjab. Hence, instead of conducting seminars and distributing pamphlets, it will be highly desirable if a few persons like Ayesha Mumtaz are given a free hand in the performance of their duties. The difference will automatically be visible within no time.
Air-Cdre (r) Azfar A Khan
Rawalpindi