Shillong, October 24: East Khasi Hills district administration officials conducted a surprise inspection of tea shops at Khyndai Lad in Police Bazar on October 24 following a written complaint about poor hygiene and sanitation.

The inspection was carried out after a complaint was submitted to Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, who directed officials to examine the establishments mentioned in it.

During the inspection, officials visited a tea shop identified as Gupta’s, where they reportedly found unhygienic conditions in the kitchen and utensil-washing areas. Concerns were also raised over the discharge of wastewater into a drain.

The condition of the kitchen and food preparation areas raised concerns about the hygiene and safety of food and beverages served to customers. Officials also noted that waste was reportedly being collected and stored without segregation into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories.

Officials examined the milk and tea sold at the establishment and spoke to those present about the importance of maintaining cleanliness and complying with the prescribed hygiene standards.

The inspection highlighted the need for regular monitoring of food preparation, storage and serving practices at eateries in Khyndai Lad, one of Shillong’s busiest commercial areas, frequented by residents and tourists.

As of the filing of this report, there was no official confirmation on whether milk or tea samples had been collected for laboratory testing, corrective directions had been issued, or any penalty or other action had been taken against the establishment.