Ganderbal, July 14: In a significant step towards ensuring the health and safety of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, the Food Safety Department of Ganderbal launched surprise inspections on Monday across several roadside dhabas and food stalls along the Baltal route, uncovering multiple hygiene violations.The drive, carried out under the supervision of Shiraz Ahmad Mir, designated officer Food Safety Ganderbal and Fayaz Ahmad, Food Safety Officer Kangan, targeted food business operators catering to the heavy influx of yatris.During the inspections, teams found widespread breaches of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, including unsanitary kitchens, improper food storage and poor hygiene maintained by staff. Officials also discovered expired food items, which were promptly confiscated and destroyed on the spot to eliminate any risk to public health.Spot fines amounting to Rs 9,000 were levied against violators as part of the enforcement action aimed at boosting compliance. The operation was conducted on the directions of Syed Abid Rashid Shah, Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department and Samita Sethi, Commissioner Food and drug administration J&K. Local residents and pilgrims welcomed the move, calling it timely and much-needed. “We have seen unhygienic food stalls operating without fear for years. This action sends a strong message,” said Mushtaq Lone, a resident of Sonamarg.Pooja Verma, a pilgrim from Delhi said: “It’s reassuring to know the government is actively monitoring food safety. As a pilgrim, this gives us confidence to eat along the route.”Reyaz Ahmed, a volunteer at a local langar said that health comes first.” Pilgrims already endure a tough journey, and the last thing they need is unsafe food,” he said. Officials confirmed that the crackdown is part of an ongoing drive and will continue in the coming days to maintain food safety standards along the yatra route.
