A bi-species abattoir built on modern standards was today inaugurated in Demthring, West Jaiñtia.
The project for construction of the slaughter house was taken up by the Chennai Abattoir Pvt. Ltd. (CAPRI), a company of experts that is involved in various abattoir projects spanning across the country.
The project is funded by NABARD with a sanctioned cost of Rs 7.83 crores. The capacity of the plant is for processing 50 heads of cattle and 100 head of hogs in one shift.
CAPRI said that the abattoir can handle about 100 cattle and up-to 200 hogs, per day. This spare capacity can be utilized gainfully and it has to be backed by expansion of infrastructure, machinery and equipment, to satisfy the future requirements.
While enhancing the functional strength of the abattoir by creating additional infrastructure and attendant facilities, the scope of local meat industry would substantially grow and progress into meat processing, related developments, as well as accommodate growth of increased consumer base in surrounding areas of Jowai, the company said.
Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department Alexander L Hek, Amlarem MLA Lahkmen Rymbui, Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla and officials of the department were present at the inaugural function as guests.
Hek said that the abattoir is a Christmas gift to Demthring village and the people of West Jaiñtia Hills. “We want to make this project operational and functional. Any improvement in the future particularly machines, the AH & Veterinary department will look into the matter,” he said.
He also called upon butcher’s association and the dorbar shnong and the department to collaborate and ensure cleanliness of the facility.
Shylla urged farmers to raise more livestock, leveraging various government schemes for increased production and Rymbui hoped that the initiative would lead to the availability of quality meat in local markets.
