Maharashtra FDA to Crack Down on Eateries Near Schools, Says Tukaram Mundhe

MUMBAI — Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on Tuesday announced that strict action will be taken against eateries operating near educational institutions if they violate food safety regulations, as the department intensifies inspections across the state.

The announcement comes as the regulatory authority steps up its enforcement drive. Mundhe stated that the FDA held a video conference with senior Education Department officials and local administration representatives, directing them to handle violations in "mission mode."

"Instructions have been issued once again and they have been told to take this up in mission mode," Mundhe said, noting that authorities have already identified specific areas requiring immediate attention.

Both the Education Department and the FDA have reviewed the situation to ensure swift enforcement. Mundhe indicated that the current actions are only the beginning of a broader campaign.

"This was just the beginning. Education Department has been instructed; we too have done a review and you will get to see a major impact in the coming 8-10 days," Mundhe said.

In addition to eateries located around schools and colleges, inspections are also being conducted at various roadside eateries and food establishments across Maharashtra, including stalls selling Chinese food and vada pav.

While acknowledging progress in food hygiene, the commissioner emphasized that more efforts are required. "Cleanliness has increased but a lot still needs to be done and work is still underway," Mundhe said.

Mundhe also called upon citizens across the state to avoid patronising unhygienic food establishments and to actively report non-compliant outlets to the authorities.