Day after carcass row, Chandigarh Chief Secy inspects incinerator plant

Chandigarh Chief Secretary H Rajesh Prasad on Thursday inspected the incinerator plant at Makhanmajra, a day after several cattle carcasses were found there.

He also visited cowsheds in Raipur Kalan and Industrial Area Phase 1, and stressed on rigorous CCTV surveillance of the gaushalas.

A row had erupted on Wednesday after carcasses were found at the incinerator plant, leading to the registration of a case. A magisterial inquiry was also ordered.

The Chief Secretary carried out a comprehensive assessment of the gaushalas, including cleanliness, availability of green and dry fodder, potable drinking water, veterinary care, waste management and overall maintenance.

He interacted with the officers and staff deployed at the gaushalas and ordered to strengthen monitoring and transparency in their functioning.

Prasad stated approximately 1,000 cows were currently housed in the Chandigarh gaushalas and that all essential facilities for their proper upkeep had been ensured.

He said the Makhanmajra incinerator had remained non-functional for a few days due to a technical defect and could not be repaired immediately. Her said the issue was being rectified and the incinerator would be made operational at the earliest.

To ensure effective management and accountability, the Chief Secretary directed that complete details of manpower deployed at the gaushalas, including veterinary doctors and supporting staff, along with their daily duty rosters, would be displayed there.

He further instructed that separate display boards be installed indicating the daily availability and consumption of green and dry fodder.

Additionally, he directed that uneven areas in gaushalas premises be properly levelled, keeping in view appropriate slope angles to facilitate proper drainage and maintain hygiene and cleanliness.

Reiterating the Chandigarh Administration's commitment towards animal welfare, the Chief Secretary said regular inspections, strict adherence to prescribed norms and timely maintenance of infrastructure would continue.

During the visit, the Chief Secretary was accompanied by Mandip Singh Brar, Home Secretary; Amit Kumar, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation; Pardeep Kumar, Secretary, Animal Husbandry-cum-Special Commissioner, MC; and other senior officers.