Police carried out a comprehensive inspection drive to ensure strict compliance with government regulations and to prevent any unlawful activities related to chemicals, fertilizers, and hardware items in the Valley on Wednesday.

“Police teams inspected stock registers, sale/purchase records, licenses, and other mandatory documents at chemical, fertilizer, and hardware shops in Awantipora in south Kashmir. The drive was aimed at detecting irregularities and preventing the misuse of materials that could pose risks to public safety,” the police spokesman said.
Police also carried out an extensive inspection drive of shops dealing with chemicals, fertilisers and hardware items in Ganderbal, Budgam and Sopore.
“In Ganderbal, Special Teams from various Police Stations, supervised by senior district officers, conducted detailed checking of stock registers, invoices, storage conditions, sale records, and licensing compliance. The drive focused on monitoring the sale and handling of items that could be misused for unlawful or anti-national elements or anti-social activities, including certain chemicals, solvents, and equipment commonly available in hardware and paint outlets. Shopkeepers were sensitized about maintaining proper documentation, adhering to safety norms, and immediately reporting any suspicious purchases or unusual customer behaviour. Police also emphasized safe storage practices to minimize fire hazards and ensure public safety,” the police spokesman said.
He said in Sopore, during the inspection, shop owners were directed to maintain complete records of buyers, including identification details, quantity purchased and purpose of procurement.
They were also advised to install functional CCTV cameras to strengthen surveillance and support traceability of transactions. It is pertinent to mention that Police in Sopore has completed a comprehensive census of all such establishments, including chemical stores, fertiliser outlets, hardware shops and vehicle workshops, to ensure proper monitoring and verification of sensitive materials across the district.