Report

NITK Surathkal, Mangalore, Karnataka one of India’s leading technical institutions, has suspended the serving of eggs, meat, and paneer in all hostel facilities after multiple food poisoning cases among residents. Several students reported symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach issues, prompting the decision. The institute has issued an official notice to all hostels outlining the restrictions.

Over 50 Students Affected by Food Poisoning

Since Friday, more than 50 students living in the hostels have shown symptoms of food poisoning, and the number of affected students continues to rise. Authorities are investigating the source of the contamination as reports keep emerging from hostels across the campus. To prevent further outbreaks, the institute has banned the serving of eggs, meat, and paneer in hostels from January 18 to 26. The ban also applies to campus cafeterias, where the institute has temporarily suspended bakery items and non-vegetarian food. The institute has advised students not to purchase food from external sources or bring food packages to campus.

Professor Pushparaj Shetty Addresses the Situation

Professor Pushparaj Shetty D, responsible for hostels at NITK Surathkal, explained that the campus hosts numerous dormitories serving meals to over 7,000 students. Initially, the complaints were believed to be confined to one hostel, but now similar reports have surfaced from all dormitories. “We initially thought the complaints came from just one hostel, but now they have spread across all dormitories,” Shetty said. “Around 50 students have filed complaints so far, and the number continues to rise.”

Immediate Measures Taken to Address the Crisis

The institute has acted swiftly, sending food samples for analysis. They have advised students to drink hot water, avoid street food, and refrain from ordering food deliveries until the situation is under control. Officials also suspect that the food poisoning may not be entirely linked to hostel meals. Many students purchase food from nearby eateries, and external sources could be contributing to the ongoing issue.

Source: The Time of India