With Char Dham Yatra, Manaskhand Yatra, and the upcoming tourist season underway, the Uttarakhand government has intensified its zero-tolerance campaign against food adulteration. Under the directive of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, a statewide crackdown is being led by Health Secretary and FDA Commissioner Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar. Acting on his orders, a team led by Additional Commissioner Tajbar Singh Jaggi conducted surprise inspections across Haridwar, Haldwani, and Udham Singh Nagar.
During raids along the Haridwar-Najibabad route, several serious violations such as unhygienic conditions, spoiled food items, open spices, and unlicensed operations were found at roadside eateries. As a result, the food licenses of Mama Bhanja Garhwali Dhaba, New Star Garhwali Dhaba, and Himalayan Bhojanalay were suspended for seven days. Khaira Punjabi Dhaba was issued a notice for improper food storage and lack of documentation.
In Haldwani and Udham Singh Nagar, inspections were carried out at sweet shops, dhabas, hotels, medical stores, and food vendors. Multiple outlets were found selling expired products, operating without valid licenses, and neglecting hygiene protocols. They were issued notices to submit improvement reports within seven days, failing which strict action under the FSS Act 2006 will be taken.
Additional Commissioner Jaggi stated that food and drug inspectors are being deployed along key yatra routes and mobile food testing labs have been activated to facilitate on-the-spot testing. He added that special monitoring is in place for sweets, dairy items, and beverages transported to hill areas.
Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar emphasized that the state is fully committed to ensuring pure and safe food supply. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted across districts to educate traders and the public about food safety norms.
