Pimpri Chinchwad: The increasing number of unauthorised vendors selling cold beverages outside schools in Pimpri-Chinchwad has sparked serious worries over student health and food safety violations. These vendors have become a common sight around school gates, especially during the sweltering summer afternoons, drawing crowds of students eager for quick refreshment.
Despite repeated concerns raised by parents, there has been little to no enforcement from local authorities. Vendors continue to operate on footpaths, narrow lanes, and outside school entrances, openly flouting hygiene norms and food safety guidelines. Most concerning is the questionable quality of the ingredients used—particularly the ice and artificial food colouring—which could expose children to harmful health conditions.
During school dismissal times, students are often seen flocking to stalls selling ice golas, artificially coloured drinks, and chilled syrups. These products, while visually appealing and affordable, often contain unregulated ingredients and are stored or served in unhygienic conditions. The water used to make the ice is especially troubling, as it often comes from non-potable sources like tap water, tankers, or even polluted streams, posing a risk of bacterial contamination from E. coli, Salmonella, or Shigella.
Health experts have warned that continued consumption of these unsafe items can lead to a range of illnesses including diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, and dysentery. Long-term health risks are even more concerning. Children may suffer from indigestion, allergies, skin conditions, acidity, and chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Furthermore, the use of chemical additives such as sodium benzoate and saccharin in syrups could potentially harm vital organs like the kidneys and liver if consumed in excess.
The PCMC is being urged to take decisive action by cracking down on these unauthorised vendors and enforcing a strict ban around educational institutions. Collaborating with school authorities to provide safe drinking water on campus is essential.
Additionally, parents and teachers are encouraged to actively educate children on the importance of food hygiene and help instil better eating habits. Schools can play a pivotal role by integrating health education into their curriculum to raise awareness about the dangers of consuming unhygienic street food and beverages.
Protecting student health requires a coordinated effort from the administration, schools, and families. Unless swift action is taken, these unregulated practices will continue to put thousands of young lives at risk.
