CHENNAI: With juice and soda stalls popping up in city spaces, city residents are complaining about infections and health issues due to water contamination. When J. Sridharan decided to gulp a glass of a colored cooler at Koyambedu bus stand before travelling to Kanchipuram, little did he know that he would end up with diarrhoea the next day. With rising temperatures people look for respite from heat and consume coolers, cold drinks and juices sold across large number of stalls all over the city.
“We are planning to inspect marketplaces and bus stations for the quality of canned and openly-sold drinks. At least, four inspection teams will be set up. From next week onwards, the inspections should begin,” said Dr R. Kathirvan, designated food safety officer.
Doctors on the other hand say it is best to carry drinks and juices made at home.
“Drinks like lime juice and buttermilk should be prepared at home and carried. Also, water should be carried instead of buying outside,” said Dr Ravindranath, of Doctors Association for Social Equality.
“Having tender coconuts and sugar palm is the next best bet but it is costly affair. So, it is best to carry water, fruits and shakes from home as the quality will not be compromised for selling it cheap,” he added. Doctors also suggest increasing the intake of purified water during summers.
