Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon today convened a meeting regarding use of prohibited calcium carbide for ripening of fruits especially mangoes and papaya by some unscrupulous elements.
Officials of Drug and Food Control Organization, Horticulture, Planning and Marketing, SMC, participated in the meeting.
On the occasion, the Div Com directed the officers to keep a strict vigil on such kind of malpractice and conduct frequent checks at Parimpora Mandi so that the menace is eradicated.
He further directed that in case such kinds of consignments enter the state, the entire responsibility shall be on fruit dealer and commission agents operating fruit Mandi Parimpora.
Dr. Samoon directed officials of Department of Drugs and Food Control organization to ensure sale of safe fruits in markets. He asked them to destroy adulterated food items as per provisions of Food Safety Act.
He further directed for formation of a squad comprising members from Drugs and Food Control Organization, Horticulture, SMC to keep strict vigil on such kind of malpractice.