Waterlogged Meat Market in Paikgachha Raises Health Concerns

The municipal meat market in Paikgachha, Khulna, has reportedly been operating in a damp and unhygienic environment for a prolonged period, raising concerns among meat traders and customers.

Traders allege that poor drainage and inadequate maintenance by Paikgachha Municipality have caused wastewater to enter the market, leaving parts of the floor wet and slippery. They say the conditions are making it difficult to maintain proper hygiene while handling and selling meat.

Meat trader Abul Kalam said the problem could be significantly reduced if about 50 feet of the road inside the market were paved properly.

“If the road is concreted, the waterlogging problem would largely be resolved and the market would no longer remain damp,” he said.

According to traders, they have repeatedly informed the municipal authorities about the problem but no effective action has yet been taken.

Members of the meat market committee also said the municipality had been notified several times about the poor condition of the market. They called for urgent repairs to the road and improvements to the drainage system.

Paikgachha Municipal Secretary Lalu Sardar said the issue could be considered if a written application is submitted to the municipal administrator.

“The matter can be considered if a written application is submitted to the municipal administrator. We hope the work can be included in an upcoming tender,” he said.

Attempts were made several times to contact the Paikgachha municipal administrator and Upazila Nirbahi Officer for comment, but the calls were not answered. Their response could therefore not be obtained.

Local customers and traders have urged the authorities to address the waterlogging and improve the market's infrastructure as soon as possible.

They said maintaining a clean and hygienic environment at the market is important for protecting public health and ensuring safe handling and sale of meat.