Chitral --  There is a shortage of meat in Chitral markets. Beef from water buffaloes brought from down country has stopped as the same is in more demand in Afghanistan and is being smuggled there. Broiler chicken brought from down country to Chitral markets have also been stopped for the moment over the price fixation issue between the chicken sellers and local administration.

A positive effect this meat crisis is having on the lives of Chitralis is that they are perforce becoming vegetarians, thus doing a healthy practice and also saving on their daily food expenses. Even more salutary effect this meatless time is having on the lives of Chitralis is that they have mellowed down in their temperaments. Brawls and altercations in the bazaars have reduced markedly and chances of violent protests over burning issues even like electricity failure have become softer than what would have been if every body was eating the buffalo meat.

Taking advantage of the meat shortage in Chitral town, enterprising fish sellers from down country have quickly moved in and set up fish shops in Jughoor and Hone localities of Chitral town, where fried fish, also brought from down country, is served round the clock and moneyed people are seen thronging these outlets sitting on charpoys and eating away lean protein to their heart's content.   . --CN report, 17 July 2011

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