Unregulated Stalls Multiply Across the City

Chennai roadside food stalls have rapidly expanded across neighbourhoods like George Town, Guindy, Mount Road, and Mylapore, raising alarms among health officials and residents. These makeshift eateries serve quick, low-cost meals such as idlis, parottas, noodles, and fried snacks—but often without any food safety licenses, sanitation standards, or quality control. Vendors prepare and serve food in open, unhygienic conditions. “We receive frequent complaints about vendors using stale oil, contaminated water, and improper food handling,” said a senior official from the Tamil Nadu Food Safety and Drug Administration Department.

Residents Depend, But Worry Grows

Despite the known risks, many residents—particularly workers and students—continue to rely on these stalls. “The food is cheap and convenient, but we know it’s not safe,” said Saravanan, a college student in T. Nagar. “Restaurants are too expensive for daily meals.” Local shopkeepers and residents complain that the stalls obstruct footpaths, attract pests, and dump waste into drains. “We see rats and stray dogs near these food stalls, and they throw garbage right into the street,” said Meena, a resident of Perambur.

Experts Warn of Health Hazards

Public health experts have warned that these unsanitary food stalls pose serious risks, especially during the monsoon. “Contaminated street food can cause waterborne diseases like typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A,” said Dr. S. Raghavan, a public health specialist. “We strongly advise the public to avoid stalls where food is exposed and hygiene is lacking.”

Authorities Urged to Act

Authorities have carried out sporadic raids and confiscated spoiled food items, but they have failed to enforce long-term solutions. “We need a stricter licensing system and regular monitoring,” the food safety official said. “We must also train vendors in basic hygiene and food safety practices.” As the demand for fast, affordable meals continues to grow, experts warn that Chennai must urgently address food safety in street vending to avoid compromising public health.

Source: News Today