The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has taken decisive action against unsafe street food practices in the city. Health department teams conducted rigorous inspections at numerous panipuri stalls. They destroyed a massive 2,000 kilograms of inedible food items during this drive.
Widespread Contamination Found
Officials collected 1,121 samples of panipuri and the water used by vendors. Laboratory analysis revealed that 280 of these samples contained non-permitted food colours. This finding highlights significant public health risks from these popular snacks.
Targeting Unsanitary Conditions
The estate and health departments jointly initiated action against vendors operating in unsanitary conditions. More than 250 carts and stalls were cleared as part of the ongoing campaign. Authorities expect this drive to continue in the coming weeks.
Data-Driven Health Initiative
This comprehensive drive was launched based on three years of epidemiological data. The data indicated an increased risk of waterborne diseases specifically in eastern Ahmedabad. In response, the AMC identified 26 high-risk areas in the eastern part of the city.
Water Chlorination Campaign
A targeted campaign began to chlorinate water used by panipuri vendors in several neighborhoods. These include Behrampura, Danilimda, Vatva, New Maninagar, and Khokhra. The initiative aims to prevent disease transmission through contaminated water.
Response to Recent Outbreaks
The recent typhoid outbreak in neighboring Gandhinagar prompted intensified inspections across Ahmedabad. The AMC expanded testing and monitoring efforts citywide following this health alert.
Concerning Health Statistics
Recent health data reveals troubling numbers for Ahmedabad. In December 2025 alone, the city recorded 239 cases of gastroenteritis. Additionally, there were 149 cases of jaundice, 180 cases of typhoid, and one case of cholera.
Looking at the broader picture, last year's statistics show even higher figures. Ahmedabad documented 6,104 cases of gastroenteritis throughout the year. The city also reported 3,148 cases of jaundice, 4,193 cases of typhoid, and 107 cases of cholera.
These numbers underscore the urgent need for continued food safety measures. The municipal corporation remains committed to protecting public health through regular inspections and enforcement actions.
