J&K Govt Bans Packaged Drinking Water After Sample Fails Safety Test
Srinagar, Dec 12: Concerns over food and consumer safety in Jammu and Kashmir have intensified after the Food Safety Department ordered an immediate ban on a packaged drinking water brand found unsafe for human consumption, just days after the government launched a probe into suspected chemical contamination in eggs.
The latest action comes after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of harmful bacteria in a sample of packaged drinking water sold in Srinagar. Officials said the development has raised serious questions about quality control and monitoring of food and beverage products being sold in local markets.
According to the Food Safety Department, the packaged drinking water brand “Ajwa”, manufactured by M/s Saaf Pani at Khonmoh in Srinagar, has been declared unsafe after tests detected E. coli and coliform bacteria. The sample was tested at the National Food Testing Laboratory, Ghaziabad, and the report confirmed that the water was unfit for consumption.
Following the findings, the Designated Assistant Commissioner, Food Safety, Srinagar, issued a prohibition order banning the sale, storage, distribution, and display of the said brand within Srinagar limits. Officials said the ban has been imposed in the interest of public health and will remain in force until further notice.
Health experts say the presence of E. coli and coliform bacteria usually indicates fecal contamination, which can lead to serious health complications. Consumption of such water can cause stomach infections, diarrhea, vomiting, and in severe cases, kidney-related illnesses.
The Food Safety Department has directed all wholesalers, retailers, and food business operators to immediately stop selling the product and report their existing stock within 48 hours. Legal action will be taken against anyone found violating the ban, officials warned.
The department has invoked relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act to enforce the order. Officials explained that as per Indian standards, coliform bacteria must not be detectable in packaged drinking water, even in small quantities.
The incident has added to growing public anxiety over food safety in the Union Territory. Earlier this week, the government ordered an investigation into reports of suspected chemical presence in eggs being sold in local markets, following concerns raised by an MLA. Together, the two cases have highlighted gaps in monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
Officials said intensified inspections, sample testing, and strict action against violators are being planned to restore public confidence. Consumers have been advised to remain cautious, check product details carefully, and report any suspected unsafe food or drinking water to authorities.
