Agartala: May 31: In a proactive move, the state food department has implemented measures to prevent profiteering from essential commodities. During a meeting held today at the conference hall of the Food and Consumer Building in Gorkhabasti, Food Minister Sushanta Chowdhury issued a stern warning to black marketeers. Additionally, he emphasized that the state government would take stringent action against those responsible for inflating prices of essential goods.
The onset of the monsoon season in the state often leads to disruptions in road communication due to its geographical location. Recognizing this challenge, the state food and public supply department has taken early steps to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, including petroleum products and LPG cylinders, throughout the monsoon period.
The food minister highlighted that the monsoon’s impact on Northeast India occasionally disrupts the movement of goods trains and vehicles along the Assam-Agartala National Highway and railway line. Consequently, imported items face delays in reaching the state. To mitigate potential shortages, the department has established a buffer stock of essential food items. The current stock in market godowns will suffice for several days, ensuring buyers can make purchases without hesitation.
Addressing concerns about black marketeers, the food minister urged them not to create problems for common people. He emphasized that artificial crises should not be manufactured anywhere. The food department remains committed to taking strict action against those responsible for price hikes in essential commodities.
To combat hoarding and prevent the sale of expired items, food department officials continue to conduct raids and operations in various markets across the state. Today’s meeting served as a precautionary measure, considering the possibility of the national highway deteriorating during the monsoon season.
Regarding essential fuels, the state currently maintains a six-to-seven-day stock of petrol and diesel. However, the severe cyclone has partially damaged the railway lines at Badarpur and Lamding railway stations, leading to accumulation of mud and water. The food minister assured that efforts are underway to restore rail communication within the next two days. Furthermore, ample food grain stocks exist in the state, and he urged everyone not to unnecessarily panic.
