Siliguri Officials Inspect Top Restaurants for Food Safety

A joint team consisting of the Siliguri Municipal Corporation, the Food Safety Department, the Enforcement Branch, the Fire and Emergency Services Department, and the police conducted a special inspection drive on Sevoke Road this Saturday. The officials checked the quality of food, hygiene standards, and safety compliance at several restaurants located in major city malls. During the operation, authorities found issues related to cleanliness and food quality in multiple establishments. Restaurant owners were strictly instructed to fix these violations immediately or face heavy fines and further legal action.

Details of the Ongoing Safety Campaign

This inspection is part of a broader, phased campaign that began on July 4 following public reports of food quality issues in the city. The drive gained momentum after a specific incident on July 1, where insects were found in biryani at a shop in the Chandmari area. The Siliguri Municipal Corporation has stated that this inspection drive will continue consistently across the city to ensure public health is not compromised. Recent administrative changes within the municipal corporation have led to a more active approach in regulating city businesses, including crackdowns on illegal construction and unauthorized hoardings alongside these food safety checks.

Mandatory Safety Guidelines for Businesses

During the inspections, authorities reiterated several standing instructions for food business operators. Restaurants and street vendors have been repeatedly told to stop using palm oil and instead use mustard or refined oil. Businesses must also comply with rules regarding the prohibition of single-use plastic and the ban on using domestic LPG cylinders for commercial cooking. Additionally, all shop owners are required to obtain a valid Food Safety Certificate from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, maintain a current trade license, and keep proper identity documents on-site. Establishments were also reminded to maintain valid fire safety licenses and equipment.

Public Concerns Lead to Strict Monitoring

Public dissatisfaction has been rising in Siliguri due to frequent reports of poor hygiene, the sale of adulterated paneer, and the discovery of insects in food items. In one extreme case during a previous inspection, a shop was sealed after cooked meat and rice were found stored near a toilet. To address these concerns, a permanent multi-departmental team has been formed to conduct ongoing monitoring and surprise checks. This team, comprising representatives from the police, health department, and municipal authorities, aims to ensure that all food outlets in the city adhere to safety and hygiene regulations at all times.