Thiruvananthapuram: The Civil Supplies Department said that 13,970 quintals of food grains to be distributed through ration shops have become uneatable due to stagnation of stocks. The data was revealed during the auditing of stock from 10 districts.  

The report also stated that 95 percent of the godowns have stored the food grains in an unscientific and careless manner. The report also found lapses in stock collection.

In December, rice and wheat with worms and a foul smell were distributed to ration shops. During inspections following complaints from shop owners, it was found that old and new stock were mixed before distribution.

There were godowns where food grains rotted due to water entering it through leakages on the roof. Storing new stock along with the old also led to food grains being spoiled.

The present report is from 10 districts while data from the remaining districts are awaited.

Civil Supplies director N. T. L. Reddy said that the department has decided to clean and reuse the food grains if possible. Stock that cannot be reused will be turned into cattle feed, he added.