Market revamp sparks controversy

Pet traders face uncertainty as the government orders relocation without providing an alternative site for business

LAHORE:

Known for decades as a hub for bird and pet sales, the Tollinton Market has landed in a controversy following the Punjab government's recent decision to close the market for renovation.

Where the authorities are adamant to shut down the market in an attempt to revamp the sale centre in adherence with international hygiene standards, the trader's community is anxious over the future of their business, which is their paramount source of income. The complex dispute surfaced after the government directed traders to relocate their businesses by June 30th, without specifying an alternative site, leaving the affected shopkeepers in a state of uncertainty.

According to Mohammad Adnan Hashmat, a bird shop owner, shopkeepers were instructed by Punjab Wildlife authorities to redesign their outlets at significant personal costs during the renovation process. "But now, we are being told to shut down and move elsewhere, which is unjust. The situation has led to anxiety among the trader community, who claim their decades-old businesses are at risk due to this sudden shift," expressed Hashmat.

Reportedly, the Lahore High Court has taken notice of the issue and requested recommendations from a judicial commission. The court remarked that Tollinton Market should serve as a model for upgrading similar markets across Punjab. However, traders insist that their removal threatens their livelihoods and have appealed to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to intervene.

According to the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), the market's reconstruction cost Rs190 million. As part of the project, three model shops were completed, and remaining vendors were instructed to renovate on their own, matching the new standards.

LDA Director General Tahir Farooq claimed that a management committee, including traders, district administration, and the Punjab Food Authority will oversee cleanliness, waste management, and meat sales, ensuring strict implementation of new SOPs.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, during her visit to the market, stated that keeping meat and live animals in the same space violated international health regulations. "Therefore, pet shops are being removed, and only meat sale will be permitted in the future. A new slaughterhouse is also being constructed near a drain for hygienic meat processing," said Aurangzeb.

While authorities see these steps as aligning with global standards, experts argue that setting up a chicken market and slaughterhouse in a busy urban zone could worsen traffic and public hygiene issues. They recommend decentralizing such facilities, pointing out that contaminated poultry meat has repeatedly been found in the city.

On the positive side, the revamped infrastructure, including tiled floors, marble pathways, and uniform lighting has improved the market environment. Some shopkeepers have even welcomed the government's initiative, saying long-term improvements are possible with collaboration.

However, pet and bird traders remain concerned, citing the lack of relocation plans and ongoing uncertainty. Shopkeepers argue that without addressing these concerns, the vision of a model market will remain obscure.