TL;DR: GHMC Mayor Gadwal Vijayalaxmi ordered the closure of the APC chicken market in Esamiya Bazaar, Hyderabad, due to severe hygiene violations like foul odors and improper meat storage. This move is part of GHMC's ongoing efforts to improve food safety and hygiene standards in the city. Inspections and awareness campaigns are being conducted to ensure compliance, and establishments violating norms face penalties or shutdowns. The Mayor also emphasized the importance of valid food licenses and clean practices in hotels and restaurants. These steps aim to build a healthier, cleaner Hyderabad. đđâ¨
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has taken a significant step towards ensuring public health and food safety by ordering the closure of the APC chicken market in Esamiya Bazaar, New Moti Nagar, Koti. The move follows a surprise inspection conducted on November 22, 2024, by GHMC Mayor Gadwal Vijayalaxmi, accompanied by MLC Balmuri Venkat. The inspection revealed severe hygiene violations, prompting immediate action.
Hygiene Violations Uncovered đ¨
The inspection team was appalled by the conditions at the market. Strong foul odors, improper storage of meat, and unhygienic surroundings highlighted a complete disregard for basic sanitation standards. These conditions not only posed a health hazard to consumers but also risked tarnishing the reputation of the cityâs food markets.
Taking swift action, Mayor Vijayalaxmi directed the immediate shutdown of the market. She further instructed the zonal commissioner to initiate legal proceedings against the market operators. Additionally, the areaâs medical officer was tasked with coordinating with entomology and sanitation departments to clean the premises and surrounding areas thoroughly.
Promoting Hygiene in Hyderabad: GHMCâs Initiatives đĄđ§´
This decisive action is part of a broader initiative by GHMC to raise hygiene standards across Hyderabadâs food establishments. The corporation has been actively conducting awareness campaigns to educate food vendors and restaurant owners about the importance of cleanliness and proper food handling. As part of this initiative:
Hygiene kits are being distributed free of cost to street vendors to encourage safer practices.
Regular inspections are carried out to ensure compliance with hygiene and safety norms.
Establishments found violating these standards are subject to fines, and in severe cases, shutdowns.
Despite these measures, many establishments have been found neglecting their responsibilities. The Mayorâs crackdown serves as a stern warning to all food businesses that substandard hygiene will not be tolerated.
Accountability for Hotels and Restaurants đ¨đ´
Mayor Vijayalaxmi has also extended her focus to hotels and restaurants. She emphasized the importance of possessing valid food and trade licenses and maintaining cleanliness as a top priority. Hotels operating without proper permits or found flouting hygiene norms face hefty penalties or immediate closure. These actions aim to build trust among Hyderabadâs citizens and ensure a safe dining experience for all.
Impact on the Public and the Way Forward đ
The temporary closure of the Esamiya Bazaar chicken market serves as a reminder of GHMCâs commitment to public health. By enforcing stricter regulations, GHMC aims to:
Ensure food safety for consumers.
Improve the cityâs overall hygiene standards.
Build a sustainable and hygienic ecosystem for food businesses.
Citizens of Hyderabad have lauded these efforts, expressing hope for more proactive measures to safeguard public health. However, these measures require the cooperation of vendors and consumers alike. As food consumers, it is equally important to report unhygienic practices and demand better standards from the places where we shop or dine.
Conclusion: Towards a Cleaner Hyderabad đâ¨
The GHMCâs stringent actions against unsanitary food establishments underscore the importance of prioritizing public health and hygiene. Mayor Gadwal Vijayalaxmiâs bold move to shut down the Esamiya Bazaar chicken market is a wake-up call for food vendors across the city. It is a step towards building a healthier, cleaner Hyderabad where every meal can be consumed with confidence.
By supporting these efforts and staying vigilant as consumers, we can all contribute to a safer and healthier food ecosystem. Letâs work together for a cleaner Hyderabad! đŞđ
