Komaram Bheem Asifabad District, Kagaznagar: The sale of substandard water packets at liquor shops has become a serious concern in Kagaznagar town. At a liquor outlet located near the petrol bunk area, the use and sale of water packets without proper quality standards has reportedly increased significantly.
According to allegations, shop operators are selling water packets that do not carry the mandatory ISI certification mark, violating established regulations. As per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms, all packaged drinking water must bear the ISI mark with IS 14543 certification. However, many of the packets being sold fail to meet these requirements.
Rules also state that only permitted items should be sold in liquor shops. Selling uncertified water packets is considered an offense under the Food Safety and Standards Act as well as Excise Rules. Despite this, there appears to be a lack of inspections by Excise and Food Safety authorities.
Serious Health Risks
Consumption of contaminated water can lead to waterborne diseases such as typhoid and cholera. Additionally, poor-quality plastic packaging exposed to heat may release harmful chemicals into the water, potentially leading to long-term health issues, including cancer. Doctors warn that individuals consuming alcohol are already at risk of liver damage, and consuming contaminated water further increases health complications.
Large stacks of water packets being stored openly in front of the liquor shop have also sparked public concern. Locals believe this situation reflects a failure in regulatory monitoring.
Demand for Immediate Action
Residents are urging authorities to take immediate action, conduct inspections, and stop the sale of substandard water packets to safeguard public health.
