Deputy Commissioner S.J. Somashekar has directed strict action against illegal business activities being carried out under the name of homemade wine, chocolates and spices in Kodagu district.
Concerns were raised over sarees being sold as ‘Kodagu Silk’ and wine being marketed as ‘Kodagu Homemade’ at low prices. Emphasising public health and safety, the District Collector instructed departments to strengthen monitoring.
Excise Department Inspector Abraham Chetan informed that homemade wine samples were found to contain 6.8 per cent alcohol and said mandatory details such as date of manufacture, expiry date, licence number and manufacturer’s name must be displayed on homemade chocolate products.
Members also highlighted severe parking congestion at Raja Seat during weekends. Urban Development Planning Branch Project Director B. Basappa said tenders have been floated under the Urban Upliftment Project and work will begin shortly. The District Collector directed officials to expedite parking infrastructure work.
The District Collector announced that plastic use will be phased out in the district and a ‘Swachha and Sundara Kodagu’ campaign will be held from March 1 to April 1. He also suggested implementing prepaid fare systems for tourist vehicles at Mandalpatti, similar to Dubare.
Regional Transport Officer Satish informed that vehicle tax amounting to Rs 1.69 crore has been collected in the district.
