Environment Ministry Ensures Public Health With Over 33,000 Inspection Tours

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in Saudi Arabia has been actively monitoring public utility markets and slaughterhouses across the Kingdom to ensure they meet the required health and technical standards. Over 33,000 field inspections were conducted from the beginning of last Shaaban until the 11th of Ramadan, highlighting the government's commitment to maintaining public health and safety.

According to a weekly report released by the Ministry, technical teams executed 15,379 tours from Shaban 29 to Ramadan 11, 1445 AH, identifying 535 violations and issuing 1039 warnings. These actions underscore the Ministry's dedication to enforcing regulations and ensuring that all commercial activities within these markets comply with the Agriculture Law and its executive regulations.

The inspections revealed several types of non-compliance among market and slaughterhouse operators. Notable violations included the lack of official uniforms for workers, absence of electronic payment machines, and improper product displays. Additionally, issues such as the absence or expiration of health certificates, sale of spoiled goods unfit for consumption, unauthorized street vending, and random slaughter activities outside designated areas were identified.

The Ministry has announced its intention to continue these rigorous inspection tours across all regions of the Kingdom. This ongoing effort aims to guarantee the availability of goods and products while ensuring that commercial establishments adhere to public health guidelines. Furthermore, the Ministry plans to enhance its control and supervision over various market activities including the sale of vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, livestock, camels, birds, firewood, and fodder. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to uphold the standards set forth in relevant laws and regulations.

This comprehensive inspection campaign reflects the Saudi government's proactive approach to safeguarding public health through strict regulatory oversight. By addressing violations promptly and efficiently, the Ministry aims to foster a safe and healthy environment for both consumers and workers in public utility markets and slaughterhouses throughout the Kingdom.

With inputs from SPA