By Agartala Correspondent | Tripura 24.in AGARTALA | March 11, 2026
AGARTALA: To ensure public health and food safety, the Sadar Sub-Divisional Administration and the Food and Civil Supplies Department conducted a major joint raid at the busy Lake Chowmuhani Market today. The surprise inspection targeted various businesses, ranging from fish stalls to grocery and hardware stores, leading to the seizure of contaminated and expired goods.
The operation was led by the Additional Sub-Divisional Magistrate (ASDM) of Sadar, Shri Dipraj Roy, along with a team of food safety officials and police personnel.
Major Focus: Formalin-Tainted Fish and Expired Goods
The administrative team focused on several key areas of concern that have been a source of public anxiety in recent weeks:
- Fish Market Inspection: Samples of fish were collected for testing to detect the presence of Formalin (a toxic preservative). The team also inspected weighing scales and weights to prevent consumers from being cheated.
- Seizure of Expired Items: Significant quantities of expired fruit juices, packaged snacks, and other perishable food items were seized from grocery and fruit stalls. These items were immediately destroyed to prevent them from reaching consumers.
- Sanitation in Eateries: Several food stalls and hotels were inspected for hygiene standards. Uncovered food and items prepared in unhygienic conditions were confiscated.
- Ban on Plastic Carry Bags: In line with environmental regulations, the administration raided shops for the use of prohibited single-use plastic carry bags, seizing a large stash from multiple vendors.
Heavy Penalties and Administrative Action
The administration did not stop at seizures; they imposed heavy fines on several shopkeepers found in gross violation of food safety and municipal laws. Some shops were served with official notices to explain their non-compliance, with a warning of license cancellation for repeat offenses.
Speaking to the press, ASDM Dipraj Roy stated:
”Our primary objective is to protect the health of the citizens. We received reports of expired goods and adulterated fish being sold in this market. Today’s action is a clear message to unscrupulous traders that playing with public health will result in severe legal consequences. These raids will continue across all markets in Agartala in the coming days.”
Impact on Local Market Dynamics
The sudden raid caused a stir among the traders at Lake Chowmuhani, with many shopkeepers quickly removing substandard items from their shelves. While the local traders’ association has requested more time to dispose of old stock, the administration has maintained a “zero-tolerance” policy regarding consumer safety.
Citizens have widely lauded the move, requesting the government to make such inspections a weekly occurrence to ensure the quality of essential commodities.
