Namchi DSCO conducts joint inspection drive to enforce standards in local businesses
In some shops and eateries, minor discrepancies were found, such as improper display of prices and the sale of near-expiry packaged goods.
LOCAL
The District Supply Control Office (DSCO) of Namchi conducted a comprehensive joint inspection of various commercial establishments under the Assanthang Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU). The inspection, held earlier this week, covered a wide range of local businesses, including retail shops, fast food outlets, and hotels operating in the area.
The inspection was aimed at monitoring the extent to which these establishments adhered to existing legal frameworks, hygiene regulations, and food safety standards. Officials from the DSCO, accompanied by representatives from other relevant government departments, visited each establishment to assess conditions, verify licenses, check for expired goods, and observe general sanitary practices.
According to officials involved in the operation, the drive was carried out following complaints and reports of non-compliance by certain businesses. “This is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that the consumer’s right to safety and fair pricing is protected,” said a senior officer from DSCO Namchi. “Our goal is not to penalize but to encourage shop owners and service providers to maintain the required standards.”
During the inspections, several key parameters were reviewed. These included the display of valid trade licenses, proper labeling of food and consumer products, expiry date verification, rate displays for goods and services, cleanliness of premises, use of protective gear by food handlers, and disposal methods for waste materials.
In some shops and eateries, minor discrepancies were found, such as improper display of prices and the sale of near-expiry packaged goods. The inspection team issued on-the-spot warnings to such businesses, directing them to rectify the issues within a stipulated time. Repeat violations, they warned, could attract fines or closure notices.
The inspection team also interacted with business owners and staff, briefing them on the need to maintain proper documentation and improve hygiene, particularly in food-handling establishments. Special emphasis was laid on the importance of maintaining cleanliness in kitchens, proper storage of raw and cooked food, and regular health checkups of staff working in food preparation areas.