VASCO: In response to the discovery of maggot-infested rice at several fair price shops (FPS) in Mormugao Taluka, the Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department has taken swift action by fumigating the entire stock of rice at the Cortalim godown.
Mormugao Civil Supplies inspector Sarita Morajkar confirmed that approximately 300 tons of rice stored in the Cortalim godown underwent a rigorous fumigation process over the course of four days. She emphasized that the department proactively carried out the fumigation as a preventive measure. After fumigating the initial stock on Friday, the godown remained closed for two consecutive days. Subsequently, the remaining rice stock was fumigated on Monday, following which the godown was closed again for an additional two days.
Morajkar revealed that the government issued a circular instructing the immediate replacement of the poor-quality rice that was delivered to the fair price shops. Consequently, all fair price shops in Mormugao taluka have been directed to set aside any poor-quality rice. However, they have been allowed to distribute the existing stock until the 21st of this month through the Point of Sale (POS) system. After that, they will begin distributing clean rice from new sacks while segregating any sacks containing poor-quality rice, if received.
Morajkar assured that once the Cortalim godown reopens, the department will initiate the process of replacing the poor -quality rice to ensure cardholders receive clean and safe rice.
