Shillong, Jun 6: The Achik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) has raised concerns regarding the safety of vegetables, fruits, poultry, and livestock entering Garo Hills from Assam.
Reports of harmful artificial chemicals found in produce from Barpeta and Guwahati have prompted ASPF general secretary Bernita Marak to urge Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to take immediate action.
This week allegations have surfaced in Assam that some vendors were treating potol (pointed gourd) with artificial chemical dyes to make spoiled or older vegetables appear fresh.
The reliance of Garo Hills on Assam for essential supplies makes this situation particularly alarming.
In a letter to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Marak said there are potential risks to public health, highlighting that Garo Hills is dependent on the supply of vegetables, fruits, and livestock for its meat vendors.
The ASPF has proposed a series of measures aimed at ensuring food safety. These include implementing strict monitoring at all entry points from Assam, establishing regular inspections by food safety officials, and creating a food laboratory center in each district.
Marak stressed the urgency of the situation, requesting that the state government enforce strict measures for all goods entering Garo Hills at key entry points along NH 217 Berubari (Bajengdoba), North Garo Hills, Dainadubi and AMPT until a safe consumption certificate is issued by the government.
The ASPF also urged the government to deploy food safety officials and veterinary department officials to monitor key routes.
On Friday, food safety officials in Meghalaya seized a consignment of the vegetable during a routine inspection here. As samples have been sent for analysis, authorities said further action will be taken after laboratory reports are out.
