Pandharpur Major FDA Crackdown on Hotels Ahead of Ashadhi Wari

In view of the upcoming Ashadhi Wari, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched a massive inspection drive in Pandharpur. Acting on the directives of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the Solapur division has taken strict action against erring establishments.Key Details of the DriveEstablishments Inspected: 217 (hotels, sweet shops, farsan centres, khanavals and prasad vendors)

Samples Collected: 172 food samples sent for laboratory analysis
Action Taken: Three establishments have been ordered to shut down immediately and their business licenses have been suspended.

Establishments Closed
The following three eateries in the Shegaon Dumala area have been shut down:Mangalmurti Misal & Bhel (Teen Rasta, Shegaon Dumala)
Hotel Swara & Chinese Center (Shegaon Dumala)
Hotel Shri Vishnu Sahasranam (Shegaon Dumala)

Purpose of the Drive
With lakhs of Warkaris expected to arrive in Pandharpur for Ashadhi Ekadashi, the FDA aims to ensure that pilgrims receive pure and hygienic food. Special attention is being given to food storage, cleanliness, quality of oil, colours, ingredients, and availability of clean drinking water.The inspection drive will continue till 14 July 2026. Assistant Commissioner Sahebrao Desai warned that strict action will be taken against any establishment found serving substandard or adulterated food.Appeal to Citizens
The FDA has appealed to hotel owners to maintain high standards of hygiene and provide free clean drinking water. Citizens and pilgrims can report any complaints regarding food quality on the toll-free helpline: Helpline: 1800-222-3635