Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has intensified inspections across Panaji, issuing improvement notices to around 30 restaurants and food outlets in recent days for failing to meet basic safety standards.
The drive, led by senior food safety officer Richard Noronha, uncovered several shortcomings related to hygiene, maintenance of kitchen spaces, and water purification systems. According to Noronha, officials inspected 21 establishments last week and another 10 earlier this week before taking action.
“Most violations were linked to poor cleanliness, damaged flooring such as broken tiles, and inadequate upkeep of water filtration units,” Noronha said, adding that all establishments have been given 14 days to address the deficiencies.
Inspectors also found that some eateries had resorted to temporary cooking setups due to disruptions in LPG supply, reportedly linked to the ongoing Middle-East conflict. In such cases, makeshift chullahs were being used. Noronha said these arrangements were reviewed, and necessary changes were recommended to ensure food safety is not compromised.
While describing the exercise as part of routine enforcement, Noronha acknowledged that the number of violations in Panaji was notable, though still less severe compared to areas like Bardez. He emphasized that the department’s aim is compliance rather than closure. “Our focus is on helping businesses upgrade their standards, not shutting them down,” he said.
Restaurant owners, meanwhile, have expressed willingness to comply but are seeking practical solutions. A restaurateur from Tonca said corrective measures would be taken, but pointed out challenges in shifting to Piped Natural Gas (PNG), citing a waiting period of nearly two months for the transition.
