Kulgam, Apr 06: Tehsildar Kulgam, along with the Food Safety department on Saturday conducted a surprise market checking drive ahead of Eid and sealed one confectionary shop and collecting ₹8000 in fines from erring shopkeepers in Kulgam.
An official said that the surprise inspection of bakery and confectionary units and shops was led by a team headed by Tehsildar Kulgam, aiming to ensure shoppers get items at regulated rates.
Bilal Ahmad, Tehsildar Kulgam, said that the drive aimed to ensure confectionary units sell products at normal prices while maintaining hygiene standards, particularly as Eid approaches.
Meanwhile, another market checking drive was conducted by food Safety Department in Manzgam, Damhal Hanjipora and other areas.
Inderjeet Singh, Food Safety Officer, Kulgam, told Rising Kashmir that the market checking squad, led by the Assistant Commissioner Food Safety, conducted the drive in Manzgam, Damhal Hanjipora, and adjacent areas of District Kulgam.
He said that during the drive, perishable food items and vegetables were destroyed, while four samples of different food items were lifted.
Syed Nighat Hassan, Assistant Commissioner of Food in Kulgam, stated that mobile testing vans are scheduled to visit Kulgam twice a month to test the samples on the spot.
She said that reports from labs are received within 14 to 20 days after sending samples for testing.
“My message for the shopkeepers of Kulgam in view of the upcoming festival is to maintain hygiene conditions, especially those dealing with high-risk foods. Distributors and dealers of food items are requested to sell quality foods,” she added.
