In Ahmedabad, food safety teams have launched a major inspection of street food vendors after rising cases of waterborne illnesses in the city. During the health department’s drive, authorities tested more than 1,100 panipuri samples sold across popular markets and discovered that 280 of them contained non‑permitted food colours, raising serious hygiene concerns. In response, unsafe food weighing about 2,000 kg was destroyed, and over 250 unhygienic food carts and stalls were removed from streets to protect public health.

The crackdown was prompted by data showing increased incidents of typhoid and gastroenteritis in different areas of Ahmedabad, including Behrampura, Danilimda, Vatva, New Maninagar, and Khokhra. Officials also began chlorinating water used by panipuri sellers as an emergency measure to reduce contamination risks.

Local residents welcomed the intervention, saying that while street food is an important cultural and culinary tradition, vendor hygiene must meet safety standards to prevent illness. Authorities have urged all street food vendors to follow food safety guidelines and maintain proper water and ingredient quality.

The campaign highlights growing efforts by municipal bodies across India to curb food adulteration and unsafe practices that can undermine public health. Officials noted that such inspections help raise awareness among both sellers and consumers about the importance of food safety compliance in everyday eating environments.