Something stinks in the BMC canteen and no, it’s not the food

MUMBAI, December 5: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is prompt in its action against hotels and canteens on receiving complaints of u...

MUMBAI, December 5: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is prompt in its action against hotels and canteens on receiving complaints of unhygienic conditions but when it comes to its kitchen it is another story. The canteen has a dubious list of debtors which includes the commissioner, the municipal secretary (who together owe Rs 60,000 while the Mayor’s office owes Rs 25,000. The administration’s dues totals Rs 1.5 lakh.

The issue took an ugly turn this morning when members of the Municipal Karmachari Sena (MKS) walked into the canteen and sealed its doors on the pretext that the food served is sub-standard. They put up a board outside threatening the employees to leave the canteen and walked away.

A canteen spokesperson, who did not wish to be named, said that the question of hygiene does not arise since the health department regularly conducts sample testing. He said, “Health department officials have never complained against us.” The administration had reportedly failed to keep its promise of providing an LPG connection. Now the food is cooked on kerosene stoves.

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The canteen hall has no water outlet preventing regular washing. The contractor was also promised revision in the rate of food in July this year but the administration has not arrived at any decision as yet.

The 3,383 sq ft canteen is a mess with some portions renovated. Windows have no glasses and the employees’ bathroom is incomplete.

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