PULWAMA: In order to curb the practice of illegal profiteering and black marketing, the Special Market Checking teams of District Administration Pulwama conducted/ intensified market checking in various parts of the district ahead of the upcoming festival of Eid ul- Adha.
The drive was conducted on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom, to ensure all essential commodities are sold at Government approved rates as per the quality standards with sufficient availability of consumables.
The checking squads headed by Tehsildar concerned and Officers from Police, Food Safety, SMC, FCS&CA and Legal Metrology Departments conducted intensive market checking in various Tehsils of the district and inspected various markets within their jurisdiction.
During the drive, at least 50 violations were spotted in the district in the last 02 days. Besides imposition of fine for violating different provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act, 05 cases have also been registered against the violators.
Several erring shopkeepers were also booked for failing to maintain the quality of food items, not displaying rate lists of essential commodities, selling expiry products, besides indulging in practices of illegal profiteering and sale of underweight products.
During the drive conducted today, the market checking teams inspected business units including Bakery, confectionery, grocery, vegetable, fruits, milk, meat and chicken selling shops. The teams also checked several food processing units to check hygienic conditions. While the Date of Manufacture, Use-by Date etc was also checked.
Meanwhile, the DC stressed on owners of all Business establishments/ shopkeepers to maintain quality and standard of essential commodities and ensure all essential commodities are sold at Government approved rates. He asked the Market checking teams to continue the drive.
The DC also directed the Tehsildars to inspect Mandies established for sale of sacrificial animals and keep proper check on rates.