Bhubaneswar, JUNE 18: Amid rising cases of diarrhoea across Odisha, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched an intensive crackdown on eateries and sweet shops across the city, targeting those flouting hygiene and safety norms.
Over the past two days, BMC teams conducted surprise inspections in several localities, including the Aerodrome area, Soubhagya Nagar, Chandrasekharpur, District Centre, Prakruti Vihar, Delta, Patia, and the KIIMS area. The drive focused on cleanliness, proper food storage, water sources, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) by food handlers.
“A fine of ₹20,000 was slapped on one establishment where rainwater was seeping in, the premises were found unhygienic, food items were kept uncovered, and staff failed to use PPE. This is a warning—repeat violations will result in sealing of the premises,” a BMC food safety officer warned.
As per an official update shared on BMC’s social media handle on platform X, officials collected 18 food samples and 16 water samples. Additionally, nearly 50 kilograms of stale or unfit food were seized and destroyed during the raids.
“Heavy penalties have been levied against violators,” the civic body stated, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public health.
