Shopian, Nov 27: Residents of Shopian town have voiced strong resentment over the failure of authorities to commission the long-awaited slaughterhouse, despite its construction being completed months ago.
Locals said that the delay has caused inconvenience, health concerns, and raised questions about administrative inefficiency.
According to residents, the slaughterhouse project, taken up by the Municipal Council Shopian, was completed well within the stipulated timeframe — yet it remains non-functional, forcing butchers to continue slaughtering animals in open or makeshift spaces.
Abdul Majid, a local from Jamia Market, expressed frustration over the unexplained delay. “We were told the slaughterhouse would start functioning immediately after completion. Months have passed, but the building is lying locked. If everything is ready, what is stopping the authorities from commissioning it?” he said.
Residents said the non-commissioning has not only defeated the very purpose of the project but also affected hygiene standards in the town.
Shabir Ahmad, who runs a shop near the main market, said the delay has created more problems than solutions. “Animals are still being slaughtered in the open. Waste is dumped wherever possible. The whole point of constructing a modern slaughterhouse was to maintain hygiene, but nothing has changed on the ground,” he said.
Locals argue that the absence of a functional, regulated facility poses risks to public health, especially with rising concerns about sanitation in urban areas.
Several residents also questioned the lack of communication from the concerned departments.
Abdul Hamid, a local, said: “We appreciate that the structure was completed quickly, but what is the use if it is not commissioned? Authorities must come forward and explain what is causing the delay.”
The residents urged the district administration and the Municipal Council to remove all hurdles, whether administrative, technical, or manpower-related, at the earliest—(KNO)
