By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, March 26: In line with the Chief Minister’s stated order for stringent action against negligence or irregularities in government offices, District Magistrate Savin Bansal conducted a surprise inspection of the Gular Ghati food warehouse today, revealing significant lapses in compliance with prescribed standards and maintenance protocols.
During the inspection, Bansal expressed strong displeasure over the absence of standard practices and improper upkeep of registers. He directed an adverse entry to be registered against senior marketing officer Vishnu Prasad Chaturvedi and ordered departmental action. It may be reminded here that the supplies from this base warehouse serve not only Dehradun but also other districts in the Garhwal Mandal region, making adherence to standards crucial.
The surprise inspection created a stir among warehouse staff, who scrambled to the site upon the DM’s unannounced arrival. Grain samples were taken during the inspection, and they failed quality standards. Consequently, the DM ordered the destruction of several quintals of substandard grain. Stressing on public health, particularly that of children, women, and the elderly, he warned of strict action against negligent officials.
The inspection also revealed inadequate arrangements for grain storage, including the absence of mousetraps to protect stock from rodents. Bansal directed the immediate implementation of proper storage solutions and questioned why such deficiencies were not reported to higher authorities. He demanded evidence from the officials concerned of any correspondence if any, regarding these issues.
Further scrutiny revealed discrepancies in the weight of grain sacks. The stated weight, including the sack, was supposed to be 50,580 kilograms; however, the actual weight was found to be 50,150 kilograms, falling short of the standard. On-the-spot samples of wheat and rice were taken for further analysis.
Among those present during the inspection included ADM, Administration, Jai Bharat Singh, Tehsildar Surendra Dev, the Food Safety Officer, and other officials concerned. The district administration has again reiterated its commitment to strict oversight, ensuring accountability and safeguarding public health through timely interventions.
