The Amritsar Municipal Corporation (MC) has intensified its ongoing campaign against illegal dairies operating within the city limits. In a series of recent operations, the civic body has demolished unauthorized structures and seized cattle from several locations, aiming to curb unregulated dairy farming that poses serious health and environmental risks.
Targeted Areas and Actions Taken
According to officials, the crackdown has focused on areas where illegal dairies have proliferated, particularly in residential neighborhoods. The MC teams, accompanied by police personnel, conducted raids in localities such as Majitha Road, Verka, and Chheharta. During these operations, they dismantled makeshift sheds, confiscated dairy equipment, and rescued cows and buffaloes that were kept in unhygienic conditions.
Reasons Behind the Drive
The municipal authorities have cited multiple reasons for the intensified action. Illegal dairies often operate without proper licenses and violate zoning regulations. They contribute to environmental pollution through improper waste disposal, leading to foul odors and breeding grounds for disease-carrying pests. Moreover, milk from these unregulated sources may not meet safety standards, posing a threat to public health.
Legal Framework and Penalties
Under the Punjab Municipal Corporation Act and related bylaws, operating a dairy without a license is a punishable offense. The MC has warned that repeat offenders will face hefty fines and potential legal action. The seized cattle are being sent to designated animal shelters, and the owners are given a deadline to obtain valid licenses or relocate to designated dairy zones.
Response from Dairy Owners
Many dairy owners have expressed frustration, claiming that the MC's actions are too harsh and that they lack alternative livelihoods. Some argue that they have been operating for decades and that the city should provide them with proper facilities rather than demolishing their businesses. However, the MC maintains that the law must be upheld to ensure a clean and safe environment for all residents.
Future Plans
The Municipal Commissioner stated that the drive will continue until all illegal dairies are eliminated. The MC is also exploring the possibility of establishing a dedicated dairy zone on the city outskirts, where licensed operators can run their businesses with modern infrastructure and waste management systems. This would help balance the needs of dairy farmers with public health and environmental concerns.
Residents have largely welcomed the crackdown, with many complaining about the nuisances caused by illegal dairies. The MC has urged citizens to report any such operations in their areas to help maintain cleanliness and order in the city.
