The Uttarakhand government has started extensive preparations for Kanwar Yatra-2025. On the instructions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, the Health Department has made it clear that those selling food items on the Kanwar route will have to compulsorily display the food license at their establishment. Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration Dr. R Rajesh Kumar said that it will be mandatory for all hotels, dhabas, carts and food establishments to display their license or registration certificate at a prominent place. Strict instructions have also been given to the cart and phad owners regarding this. For not following the rules, a fine of up to two lakhs and legal action will be taken. Food safety officers have been instructed to conduct surprise inspections with the cooperation of the local administration and police. Do not back down from legal action in case of possible resistance.
Food safety display board also mandatory
Hotels and eateries will have to install ‘Food Safety Display Board’ in their premises. So that consumers can get information about the quality of food and the responsible person. The department has strictly instructed all the district officials to ensure that this order is followed completely.
Food samples will be thoroughly tested
Teams of food safety officers have been deployed in Haridwar, Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri and Uttarkashi. These teams will regularly collect samples of milk, sweets, spices, oil etc. and send them for testing. If the samples do not meet the standards, the concerned shop will be sealed immediately. Mobile food testing vans are being deployed at places like Asharodi, Bhagwanpur, Roorkee, Shyampur, Vikasnagar etc. on the borders of Uttarakhand. These teams will test the food items on the spot. Laboratories have been asked to test the samples received every week on a priority basis, especially the perishable food items.
Direct action against adulterators
Dr. R Rajesh Kumar said that the quality of food served in pandals and stores run by NGOs, religious and social organizations on the Kanwar Yatra route will also be checked. Legal action will be taken against adulterators under the Food Safety Act. Additional Commissioner Tajbar Singh Jaggi said that the government’s stand is clear that those doing business without license should not be spared and legal action will also be taken against those who violate the rules.
Toll free number for complaints
People can call 18001804246 and register a complaint regarding the quality of any food item. On receiving the complaint, the team will go to the spot and take immediate action.
Action report will be sent daily
A report of the action taken daily from every district will be sent to the government. The responsibility of monitoring has been given to senior officials. If negligence is found, the concerned officers will also come under the purview of action.
Government’s appeal: Do not compromise on health on the festival of faith
The state government has appealed to religious institutions, Bhandara operators and food vendors to serve pure and safe food. Along with faith, special attention will also be given to health in the Kanwar Yatra.
