Guwahati: Meghalaya health authorities have instructed testing of fish sold in local markets after reports of heavy metal contamination in fish supplied from Assam.
Officials said samples from wholesale centers, retail markets, and entry points into the state will be collected and sent to authorised labs for detailed testing.
The move comes following indications that some fish consignments from Assam contained lead and other metals above safe limits.
Food safety officers have been asked to step up inspections across the state to ensure the safety of fish entering Meghalaya.
Authorities warned that any fish found unsafe will be seized and destroyed, and violators of food safety rules will face legal action.
While Meghalaya relies heavily on fish from Assam and Andhra Pradesh, efforts are ongoing to boost local production.
Authorities described the move as a precaution to ensure consumer safety.