Jajpur: In the wake of food-poisoning of a large number of people, municipal authorities of Jajpur in Odisha launched a drive against street food vendors operating in unhygienic conditions.
A special team led by Chief Health Officer Dr Pradeep Khuntia conducted raids in several localities including Kusuma, Medical Square and Jodikua. They directed roadside eateries to remain shut for a week, till health inspections were completed.
This action comes after more than 50 people of Patapur village under Jayantara panchayat in Dasarathpur block were hospitalised with food poisoning after allegedly eating ‘Dahibara,’ a street food.
Nearly 27 shops were also removed from the vicinity of medical square for easy movement of ambulances. “The shops operating at the roadside were blocking the movement of ambulances and Collector had directed they should be shifted. Food safety inspectors will check the safety of food being served in these street shops,” executive officer of Jajpur municipality Laxmidhar Rout told a local news channel.
The administration has warned of strict action against vendors found guilty of selling substandard and unhygienic food items.
Health Minister Mukhesh Mahaling said the government is launching an awareness drive about food safety among the public and has directed administrative officials to keep monitoring roadside stalls. “We plan to appoint more health inspectors and set up testing laboratories in every district. The food safety department will be strengthened,” he told media.
