GHMC inspects 18 fruit, vegetable markets; interacts with vendors, presses for hygiene

Hyderabad: Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has carried out inspections across 18 fruit and vegetable markets in the city as part of its weekly special drive.

The initiative, led by the Food Safety wing, covered 455 vendors and focused on hygiene, food safety, and regulatory compliance.

Focus on Hygiene and Grading

During the inspections, Food Safety Officers interacted with vendors on maintaining cleanliness and handling produce responsibly. Officials explained the need for grading fruits and vegetables to ensure better quality standards for consumers.

“Grading helps not just in consumer satisfaction but also in reducing waste. Vendors were encouraged to separate damaged produce and store fresh stock properly,” said Narsing Rao, GHMC food safety official.

Emphasis on FSSAI Registration

The drive also highlighted the importance of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) registration. Officials noted that registration provides accountability and traceability in the food supply chain.

“Registration with FSSAI is a legal requirement. We are arranging on-ground registration camps to make the process easier for vendors,” the official added.

Waste Disposal and Monsoon Precautions

Proper waste disposal methods were another key area of discussion. Vendors were asked to avoid dumping spoiled produce on streets and instead use designated bins and disposal systems. With the ongoing monsoon season, precautions against water stagnation and pest breeding were also stressed.

“Unhygienic disposal of waste can quickly lead to health hazards during the rains. Vendors must cooperate in keeping their markets clean,” said Rao.

Markets Covered in the Drive

Among the markets inspected were Kushaiguda vegetable market, Saroornagar Rythu Bazar, Vanasthalipuram market, Madannapet Mandi, Mir Alam Mandi, Owaisi market, Mozamjahi Market, Monda Market, Sanathnagar market, Khairatabad market, Mehdipatnam Rythu Bazar, Lingampally Market, Patancheru Agricultural Market, JNTU Rythu Bazar, Shapur Nagar fruit market, Bollarum Market, Malkajgiri bazaar, and Mettuguda market.

Ongoing Initiative

Officials confirmed that the special drives will continue in the coming weeks to monitor compliance and to assist vendors in improving practices. Registration camps for vendors are expected to begin soon at multiple market locations.