Crackdown on eateries around schools

BANGALORE: The Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike has now decided to bring all shops that sell eatables near school premises under their scanner. This decision has been taken following the incident on Thursday, when 29 students fell ill after consuming toffees purchased from a shop near the school. A student had distributed the sweets on his birthday. Officials have noticed that in summer, students purchase food items, especially cool drinks, from eateries and shops near schools. The incidence of people suffering from water- borne disease too increases in summer. With exams around the corner, the officials want to take preventive measures to address health concerns. Chairman of BBMP Standing Committee for Health, Geetha Sashikumar called for an emergency meeting, which was chaired by Chief Health Officer Manjula. Speaking with City Express, Shashikumar said, “We have issued directions to all BBMP food inspectors to have a sample of the toffee. They have also been instructed to bring all shops that sell eatables near schools under their purview and check food samples regularly. If any gross violation is found, then they will suspend the license with immediate effect.”