LUCKNOW, April 1 -- Serious concerns have resurfaced over the functioning of blood banks in Lucknow where multiple facilities continue to operate despite repeated inspections flagging critical safety lapses. Official estimates indicate that around 60 blood banks are currently operating in the city, including 29 by charitable organisations and societies. However, inspections conducted by the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) have consistently identified major deficiencies at several centres. According to inspection reports, a number of blood banks lack mandatory testing equipment. In several instances, qualified doctors are either absent or not regularly available to supervise blood collection and processing. Despite these shortcomings, these facilities continue to collect, process, and supply blood, raising serious risks to patient safety. Brijesh Kumar Singh, assistant commissioner, FSDA, said notices have been issued to non-compliant blood banks, with some already facing temporary license suspension. "Strict action, including licence cancellation and FIRs, will be initiated if responses are unsatisfactory and deficiencies are not rectified," he said, adding that a detailed report would be sent to the State Drug Controller Authority for further action. Highlighting past enforcement, Singh said that eight individuals were jailed and licences of three blood banks were cancelled last year following similar violations. A major crackdown on February 7, 2025, exposed grave irregularities at three facilities in Haiderganj, Dubagga and Shringar Nagar. Surprise inspections revealed discrepancies in blood donation records, storage practices, safety protocols and maintenance of statutory registers. In addition to the raids, FSDA officials inspected three major blood banks in Indiranagar, Kalyanpur and Faizabad Road on February 22, 2025 too, uncovering alleged irregularities in blood storage and documentation, he added. Officials acknowledge a pattern of repeated violations across multiple centres. Medical experts warn that transfusing inadequately screened blood can lead to severe infections, complications and, in critical cases, rapid deterioration of patients. The continued operation of such facilities despite documented violations has raised questions over regulatory enforcement and accountability....