Why Blinkit has been fined ₹5L in Noida
What's the story
The Noida Authority has slapped a ₹5 lakh fine on a cloud kitchen run by Blink Commerce Pvt Ltd, the parent company of popular quick-commerce platform Blinkit. The penalty was imposed for violating solid waste management and plastic ban norms. The action came after an inspection of a Blinkit-associated cloud kitchen in Sector 62, as part of preparations for 'Swachh Survekshan,' India's annual cleanliness survey.
Violations uncovered
Inspection reveals multiple violations
The inspection revealed a number of serious deficiencies. The establishment was not segregating waste at source, which is a basic requirement for bulk waste generators. Liquid waste was being discharged into the sewer and collected garbage was handed over to unauthorized scrap dealers who were dumping it at various places in the city.
Unacceptable practices
Noida Authority condemns unsanitary conditions
The Noida Authority condemned the unsanitary conditions surrounding the building. "The area around the building was extremely dirty, with food waste and garbage dumped in nearby parks and open spaces. Such practices are unacceptable for bulk waste generators," it said. A major violation was the use of banned single-use plastic for food packaging, with officials recovering around 50kg of such plastic containers from the premises.
Warning issued
Warning for future violations
The Noida Authority imposed the ₹5 lakh fine on Blink Commerce Pvt Ltd for violating solid waste management rules and bulk waste generator rules. It also warned of stricter punitive action in case of future violations. The action comes against the backdrop of Blinkit's recent expansion into food delivery with its new vertical, 'Bistro by Blinkit.'