Food safety drive in Dharmanagar targets hotels & street eateries; Strict hygiene rules enforced

In a bid to ensure safe and hygienic food for the public, the administration launched a special inspection drive across hotels, restaurants, and roadside food stalls in Dharmanagar on Wednesday evening. The operation, led by Additional Sub‑Divisional Magistrate Himendu Bikash Pal along with officials from the Food Department, checked compliance with food safety standards and penalised several outlets for violations.

Accompanied by Food Safety Officer Kinkar Debbarma and other officials, the team inspected food storage, cleanliness, and serving practices. At multiple establishments, irregularities were detected, resulting in fines. Officials also visited small roadside stalls, issuing clear instructions to cover cooked food, use gloves while serving, and maintain basic hygiene.

The administration warned that repeated violations would invite strict punitive measures, including closure of offending outlets. Special attention was given to the use of gas cylinders at roadside stalls, with shopkeepers instructed not to use domestic cylinders for commercial cooking. Authorities announced that enhanced monitoring of cylinder use would begin immediately.

The drive’s primary objective was to raise awareness among food vendors and ensure that consumers receive safe, hygienic meals. Officials stressed that the campaign is not limited to enforcement but aims to build a culture of compliance.

Local residents welcomed the initiative, noting that roadside eateries are popular but often lack proper hygiene. The administration confirmed that similar drives will continue in the coming days to strengthen food safety across the town.