IFA Seals Sites, Fines Eight Outlets Rs195,000 Over Unsafe Food

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Islamabad: Islamabad Food Authority conducted a 10 day inspection campaign during Muharram to ensure safety of food and drinks served at public sabeels and langar distribution points across the Federal Capital.
Deputy Director Operations of IFA, Dr Tahira Siddique said the campaign aimed to ensure all offerings during religious gatherings were hygienic and safe for public consumption.

The inspection report covering activities from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram revealed that 105 special inspections were conducted across Islamabad. Of these, 69 inspections took place at sabeel and langar points, while 36 checks were made at different catering setups linked to the religious events.
The operation targeted food quality, hygiene practices, and overall cleanliness of serving areas. Two locations were sealed due to poor food quality, while fines amounting to Rs 195,000 were imposed on eight outlets for violations. Food authority teams also discarded 87 kilograms of substandard food materials during the campaign.
Dr Tahira Siddique said a special inspection team was formed preceding of Muharram to carry out the operations. Food safety teams paid close attention to hygiene practices during preparation and distribution of langar and beverages, including storage conditions, cooking practices, water sources, food handling methods, and cleanliness of utensils and surroundings, according to Dr Tahira Siddique.
All inspections were conducted without discrimination under the instructions of the Director of Food Authority.

The goal was to ensure categorically safe food provision on Ashura, when large numbers of people gather to consume food and drinks offered at various religious points, stated Dr Tahira Siddique.
Inspection teams were equipped with food safety kits and followed standard operating procedures during each visit. Food handlers at inspected locations were advised on safety protocols and given on the spot guidance to improve hygiene standards.
Representative of the food authority said many locations maintained clean and safe food practices, but immediate action was taken where violations were found.

Public health, remains a top priority, especially during large gatherings when thousands rely on free food and water.The inspection drive will help build awareness among the public and organisers about the importance of food safety during religious events, noted Dr Tahira Siddique. The food authority also plans to continue monitoring such events in the future to ensure better standards are maintained.
Islamabad Food Authority has urged event organisers, volunteers and catering service providers to cooperate with safety teams and take food safety seriously, especially during public events like Muharram.

The 10-day campaign was part of a broader initiative to ensure safe food practices during religious gatherings and prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.