Key Update

The Kozhikode Corporation, in collaboration with the Food Safety Department and the National Health Mission, will open a fully equipped Food Street at Kozhikode Beach by the end of this month. This Food Street initiative aims to deliver safe, clean, and high-quality food in a scenic coastal setting, while promoting organised street vending and upholding public hygiene. Authorities have prioritised food safety at every stage—from infrastructure development to vendor support—ensuring the public enjoys a worry-free dining experience by the sea.

Ready Stalls for Local Vendors with Diverse Menu and Uniform Standards

The Corporation has installed 90 specially designed food stalls at the Food Street, built by public sector unit Metal Industries and designed by D. Earth using corrosion-resistant steel to withstand the sea air. These stalls are equipped to allow vendors to store food and water hygienically and maintain safe temperatures throughout service. Officials are relocating existing beachside vendors to these new stalls, with each vendor securing a ₹3 lakh loan from Kerala Bank to purchase their unit.

Vendors at the Food Street will serve a variety of North and South Indian dishes, including traditional Kozhikode delicacies. To ensure public safety, Food Safety Officers will regularly inspect the stalls to verify compliance with national hygiene and safety regulations. Authorities are also implementing training programs to help vendors follow strict food safety protocols, covering hygiene, food handling, and storage. By enforcing these standards, the Corporation aims to prevent contamination, maintain food quality, and build public trust in street food.

Supporting Infrastructure Built for Hygiene

To maintain a hygienic environment, the Corporation has developed key infrastructure across a 240-meter stretch of the beach, investing ₹4.06 crore into the project. The setup includes:

• Clean water connections provided through the Kerala Water Authority

• A dedicated power transformer to ensure uninterrupted electricity

• Wastewater treatment systems to manage liquid waste effectively

• Designated platforms for each stall, keeping cooking areas elevated and clean

• Seating areas, allowing customers to dine in an organised, litter-free setting

• Proper lighting, a breastfeeding room, and an upgraded police aid post for added convenience and safety

By creating a clean, controlled environment and supporting local vendors economically, the Corporation is setting a new standard for safe, sustainable, and inclusive street food culture. The Food Street is set to open before Onam, offering residents and tourists a hygienic, flavorful dining experience by the sea.

Source: Mathrubhumi 

Manorama Online