It was the TEHRAN TIMES that for the first time drew attention of the government of the Islamic Republic and informed them that buffaloes suffering from foot-and-mouth disease have been smuggled to Iran via Afghanistan.

Certain mafia elements of Pakistan acting on the orders of some Western countries were also behind the smuggling of sick animals to Iran.

Unfortunately, the government officials not only did not pay necessary attention to this very serious problem, but they completely denied the report of the daily.

Earlier several European countries had experienced this menace of foot-and-mouth disease among their animals. The countries suffering most included Britain, France, the Netherlands, Ireland, Luxembourg and Denmark.

Although this grave situation was brought to the notice of the officials in time and they could definitely take preventive measures, their lack of responsibility has now caused the country irreparable damages. Therefore those officials who denied the report and did not make an inquiry to the daily's report must be punished.

Secondly, the concerned official must make urgent arrangements for foot-and-mouth veterinary aid and mass vaccination of livestock.

All trucks and other vehicles transporting livestock, meat and dairy products must be checked thoroughly.

The officials finally must take all necessary measures to slaughter the sick animals wherever the disease has been identified.

This affliction to the country's livestock is very dangerous and to get rid of it draconian measures are needed.