Shimla Slaughterhouse disaster: Contamination concerns being addressed assures CHO MC
Shimla, Sept 5
In a devastating landslide that struck the Krishna Nagar area of Shimla city on August 15, a slaughterhouse fell victim to nature’s fury, leaving behind a grim situation. Approximately 80-90 livestock or Goats and about 45 quintals frozen chicken were trapped beneath the debris, with the poultry adding an unpleasant odor to the scene.
Dr. Chetan Chauhan, the Chief Health Officer of the Municipal Corporation Shimla, confirmed the situation. He evaluated that the meat though got buried around 15-20 feet below the debris, but the frozen chicken which was lighter in weight may have got spilled not so far below the ground and now as debris is being removed is causing the stink. Despite thorough sanitization efforts using sprays and bleaching powder, some lingering stench is anticipated due to the chicken spillage. The ongoing debris removal operation will be followed by comprehensive sanitization, he added.
Also read:Slaughter house with 10 to 15 houses collapse in Krishna Nagar Shimla
Dr. Chauhan revealed that they have requested the district administration to designate the affected area as a contamination zone, extending up to 500 meters. Additionally, steps have been taken to divert water from the area towards the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to prevent downstream contamination. Notably, the water flowing from this location ultimately merges with the Ashwani Khud water, heightening concerns about river water contamination.
To ensure the absence of contamination, the authorities have reached out to the HP Pollution Control Board and relevant veterinary agencies, requesting a thorough investigation into the matter.
Further investigating in the matter, Regional Pollution officer HP Pollution Control board Lalit Thakur, said that on getting this information, they have taken samples of the water and have been sent to the lab. “Results for the same are waited, as this kind of lab investigation takes some time, he confirmed.
This tragic landslide not only claimed two lives but also resulted in the destruction of approximately eight houses, including some makeshift structures, in addition to the slaughterhouse. The Krishna Nagar area has been officially declared a containment zone, owing to the potential health risks posed by the disaster.
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