Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 31 October 2024
In light of alarming food safety violations discovered at a restaurant in Bhatu Basti, Sri Vijayapuram, a pressing appeal has been made to the State Food Safety Commissioner to enhance monitoring protocols across hotels, bakeries, eateries, and meat stalls in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The incident, which has drawn significant concern, highlights the need for immediate action to address critical shortcomings in sanitation and waste management practices throughout the islands. While the Food Safety Commissioner has been commended for swift action in this particular case, ongoing reports suggest that many food establishments have failed to maintain essential hygiene standards, jeopardizing public health.
Ms. VD Leju, a well recognised social worker and LG Commendation Awardee, has taken the initiative to propose a series of recommendations aimed at bolstering food safety measures. These include:
1. Enhanced Sanitation and Waste Management: Establishing robust waste collection and sewage treatment infrastructure compliant with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards to protect the islands’ fragile ecosystem.
2. Accountability and Public Awareness: Mandating that eateries display food safety certifications and train their staff in rigorous hygiene practices to foster public confidence.
3. Improved Hygiene and Pest Control: Ensuring compliance with pest control measures as per Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, which include regular inspections and proactive measures to prevent pest infestations.
4. Proper Food Handling and Storage: Enforcing strict adherence to food product standards and safe temperature regulations to ensure hygienic food storage.
5. Employee Health and Training: Implementing regular hygiene training and health assessments for employees, in accordance with FSSAI guidelines.
6. Regular Inspections and Self-Assessments: Advocating for frequent health inspections and encouraging establishments to conduct internal audits to maintain compliance with safety standards.
7. Complaint and Corrective Action Mechanism: Establishing a robust system for addressing customer complaints promptly, in line with the Consumer Protection Act.
Leju emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “Implementing these protocols will create a safer environment and restore public trust in our food establishments. With tourism being a crucial aspect of our economy, we cannot compromise on the standards of our hotels and restaurants.”
To facilitate the implementation of these recommendations, Leju proposed the formation of a committee in each Tehsil/Block. This committee, comprising health officials, representatives from the A&N State Pollution Control Board, and community members, would be tasked with conducting surprise inspections and ensuring compliance with food safety and waste management practices.
The appeal has been officially submitted to the State Food Safety Commissioner, with copies sent to key officials in the A&N Administration for further action.