Hiccups in free ration materials distribution in some places

The distribution of Puja special combo of ration materials comprising semolina, refined flour and sugar failed to be kicked off evenly all across the state due to transportation delays, sources have said.

In some areas distribution had started right from Saturday evening but in some places distribution couldn’t be started.

According to reports from South Tripura and Gomati Districts, the free materials had been lifted by consumers from designated ration shops in proper time. But, in Sonamura subdivision, the materials didn’t reach adequate quantities.

Although the special materials were supposed to be distributed before the festivities begin, consumers returned bare handed from the ration shops in the Udaipur subdivision before Durga Puja. As the matter drew media attention, distribution was carried out throughout Sunday across the whole Udaipur subdivision.

Speaking on the issue, Subdivision Food Inspector Debajyoti Chakraborty said, “The go down was open the whole night which is why all the consignments had been dispatched for the FP shops across the subdivision.” Meanwhile, the situation in Sonamura subdivision is completely different. The materials didn’t reach the FP shops in adequate quantities which is why the distribution couldn’t be started.

Sources said a total four food department warehouses exist in the subdivision from where the FP shops get their stock. In almost all the places, an adequate number of materials didn’t reach. Till Saturday night, cargo shipments reached the warehouses but on Sunday the process remained stalled and on Monday due to Laxmi Puja no movement is expected to take place.

The PDS beneficiaries are little bit upset with the development but they are not worried since once the stock is dispatched to the shops, they will be able to lift their share till October 30 this month.