Kohima, April 4 (MExN): The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) has enhanced the rate of pork to Rs. 200/- per kg and beef to Rs. 180/- per kg due to the spiralling cost of livestock imported from outside the State. Any rates above these will be treated as unauthorized and liable to be penalized, it has been warned. A decision in this regard was taken during a meeting of KMC officials, veterinary doctor and representatives from Kohima Town Butchers’ Union (KTBU) on April 3 at the office chamber of KMC Administrator According to a press statement from KMC, the meeting also resolved that all butcher shops/outlets will facelift their shop and compulsorily cover the tables with vinyl carpets/tiles. They will also mandatorily use digital weighing machines and salespersons will use aprons. The meeting further stressed on sale of only hygienic and quality meat and improvement in personal hygiene and etiquette of the salespersons. To streamline the butcheries, it was also made mandatory for all to obtain registration from the KTBU prior to application of Butchery Licence from KMC. Licence will not be issued by the KMC without the registration receipt from KTBU, the release stated. It was also decided that any shop operating without valid licence/permit from KMC will be treated as illegal and needful action deemed fit will be initiated without any notice. Meanwhile, the meeting resolved that an amount of Rs. 5000 shall be deposited as security deposit and shall be refundable on fulfillment of terms and conditions. Non-adherence will entail forfeiture of Security Deposit and other penalties/fine as deemed appropriate, the release said. The above resolutions will be implemented by May 1. For complaints, it was informed, the following KMC staffs can be contacted: Kedilhou Yhome- 8131936828, Neibazotuo Sorhi- 8014999687.
