540 food points checked, Rs1.15m fines imposed in crackdown ahead of Eid

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th Mar, 2026) In a major crackdown to ensure safe food for Eid travelers, the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) inspected 540 food points across bus stands, railway stations and motorway service areas in the last 48 hours, imposing fines worth Rs1.154 million on 73 outlets.

Around 300 kilograms of expired snacks, juices, cold drinks and other substandard items were seized and discarded during the operation, launched on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid told media on Friday that inspections covered various locations including Sukhiki, Sial Mor, Bhera, Burhan Interchange, Kallar Kahar and Chakri, as well as service areas along M-3 and M-4 motorways.

He said 69 food points were checked in Lahore Division, 61 in Faisalabad, 26 in Sahiwal, 48 in Rawalpindi and 74 in Gujranwala, while 35 inspections were conducted in Sargodha, 50 in Bahawalpur, 64 in Multan and 28 in Dera Ghazi Khan.

The DG highlighted serious violations, including dirty washing areas, foul-smelling storage, insect-infested kitchens and the use of rotten vegetables in food preparation, adding that several outlets were fined over poor hygiene and sanitation.

He warned that strict action would be taken against adulteration and sale of fake or expired food items, including closure of businesses, and directed all food operators to comply with food safety regulations. Inspections at service areas, bus terminals and railway stations will continue throughout Eid-ul-Fitr.