The District Supply Control Office (DSCO), Namchi, undertook a joint inspection drive across various local commercial establishments under the jurisdiction of Assanthang Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU). The inspection targeted shops, fast food stalls, and hotels operating within the GPU to monitor their adherence to prescribed legal and sanitary standards.
The primary objective of this inspection was to evaluate the hygiene and sanitation conditions maintained by shopkeepers and food vendors, verify the shelf-life and storage conditions of consumable items ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions outlined in trade licences and identifying any malpractice, such as the sale of expired or substandard food products.
The inspection was carried out by SDM (HQ) Mr Nim Pintsho Bhutia, DCSO Namchi Mr Tenzing Bhutia, FI Ms NeemaTamang, ASI Ms Amrita Bishwakarma and DEO Mr Deepak Chettri .
The inspection uncovered a number of critical lapses and irregularities.Several establishments were found lacking in basic cleanliness and sanitary measures. Unhygienic storage conditions, uncovered food items, and improper waste disposal.
Shopkeepers were advised to undertake immediate corrective actions and were reminded of the hygiene guidelines prescribed under the terms of their business licences.
Some of the shops were selling expired food items such as packaged biscuits, chips and chocolates, Instant food products like wai wai, maggi, and noodles, various brands of cold drinks, milk such as Amul Taaz, tomato ketchup, dark soya sauce, and mixed spices.
The shop owners in question were issued warnings and instructed to immediately remove such products from their shelves.
The SDM has taken strict note of these violations.
Further, he categorically informed the shopkeepers that any recurrence of such practices would invite stringent penalties, including monetary fines as per the relevant regulatory frameworks, suspension or cancellation of trade licences for repeat offenders and possible legal proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards Act and other applicable laws.
He also emphasised the importance of proper inventory management to avoid the stocking of expired goods and advised shopkeepers to conduct regular checks of their commodities.
The District Supply Control Office appeals to all local vendors and business owners to prioritise the health and safety of their customers by maintaining high levels of hygiene at all times ensuring all goods sold are within their expiry period and complying fully with trade licence terms and food safety regulations.
Consumers are also encouraged to report any suspicious or unhygienic practices observed at local businesses to the appropriate authorities.
Report from DIO Namchi
