Food Businesses Fined Tk 55,000 for Unhygienic Food Preparation in Bagmara.

M A Khayer Emon, Comilla Correspondent. LALMAI, COMILLA — Three food businesses in Bagmara Bazar of Lalmai upazila in Cumilla were fined a total of Tk 55,000 during a mobile court operation on Monday for preparing food and confectionery items in unhygienic conditions and operating without the required approval from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). The mobile court conducted the drive on Monday (September 21) at noon under the leadership of Shahin Akter Shifa, Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate of Lalmai Upazila. Officials from the Cumilla regional office of BSTI and members of the police were present during the operation. During the drive, Talukdar Sweets and Bakery, located beside the Bagmara-Bhushchi Road, was fined Tk 25,000 for preparing confectionery products in an unhygienic environment and for not having the required BSTI approval. Another confectionery business, Al Mira Sweets and Bakery, was also fined Tk 25,000 for similar violations, including preparing food products in an unhygienic environment and operating without the necessary BSTI approval. Meanwhile, New Azmir Hotel was fined Tk 5,000 for preparing food in an unhygienic environment. The authorities inspected the food preparation areas and identified violations related to hygiene and regulatory compliance during the operation. Shahin Akter Shifa, Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate, said the administration would continue such drives in the interest of protecting public health. She urged food business owners to maintain hygienic conditions while preparing and selling food and to ensure that all necessary licences and regulatory approvals are obtained from the relevant authorities. The administration also warned that action would be taken against businesses found violating food safety and regulatory requirements in the future. Officials said such mobile court operations are aimed at ensuring food safety, protecting consumers and encouraging businesses to comply with government regulations.