Ganderbal, March 20: In a concerted effort to uphold food safety standards and enforce tobacco regulations, officials conducted a rigorous market inspection in Preng and Chittergul, sub-division Kangan area of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
The operation, led by a joint team from the Food Safety Department, Revenue and Police, was carried out under the supervision of NT Kangan-Plang Syed Mohammed Shafi, following directives from the Deputy Commissioner of Ganderbal and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Kangan.
During the inspection, multiple violations were identified under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA). As a result, a fine of Rs. 2,200 was levied on non-compliant traders. Officials reiterated that such inspections are crucial for safeguarding public health and ensuring businesses operate within legal frameworks.
Speaking on the initiative, Naib Tehsildar Kangan-Plang, Syed Mohammed Shafi said: “These market inspections are part of our ongoing efforts to enforce regulations and protect consumers from substandard products and illegal tobacco sales. We will continue such drives to ensure compliance and maintain public safety.”
Traders have been cautioned to strictly adhere to food safety and tobacco regulations, failing which stricter penalties and potential business closures may follow. Officials have also urged citizens to report violations to the concerned authorities, ensuring greater accountability and improved market standards. Local residents have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that such measures will help curb the sale of unhygienic food products and illegal tobacco items in the region. The administration has assured that these market inspections will remain a regular feature to uphold consumer rights and public health.
