Key Update

Health officials inspecting night shops along the Kalamassery–Seaport–Airport road in Kochi found water stored in open containers for several days. The water contained mosquitoes, larvae, and other impurities, posing serious health risks to consumers. Shops also offered water to customers from the same contaminated containers.

Exposed Food Increases Contamination Risk

Inspectors saw leftover items from the previous night’s sales and stock for the next day left uncovered. Exposed food invites contamination, and any tampering by anti-social elements could go unnoticed, putting public health in jeopardy. Cats, dogs, rats, and birds roamed freely around the shops, further contaminating food. Their presence increases the likelihood of disease transmission and worsens the already unhygienic conditions.

Officials Urged to Act Fast

Kalamassery has faced outbreaks of infectious diseases, including jaundice, in the past. Although health officials conduct inspections, locals say higher authorities act too slowly. Without immediate intervention, unsafe food handling continues to threaten the community.

Source: Manoramaonline