Concern over sale of artificially-ripened fruits

A Correspondent

JOYSAGAR, May 29: Sale of artificially-ripened fruits in the markets of Sivasagar has become a matter of concern. In most of the markets here, fruits like mango, pineapple, banana and watermelon are ripened artificially with the use of carbide. Besides, some traders are taking advantage of the summer season and the month of Ramzaan and have hiked the prices of fruits. On the other hand, in Sivasagar markets, the variety of fishes which are generally imported from other States are also allegedly being preserved using medicines which are dangerous to human health. Not only fish, broiler and kuroiler chicken are also allegedly being preserved by using harmful medicines.

But the district authorities do not inspect these markets and allegedly there is some secret understanding between the district authorities and the scrupulous traders due to which such trade continues unabated. Locals of Sivasagar have sharply criticized the weak role of the government authorities. The Sivasagar District Consumer Protection Forum has demanded the district authorities to conduct regular checks in Sivasagar markets.