Lucknow. The facilities and health safety of the devotees are being given top priority amidst the huge crowd of faith gathered in Magh Mela. On the instructions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, strict and effective food safety system has been implemented in the entire fair area. So far, pure, clean and safe food items have been provided to more than 17 crore devotees in the fair.

Surveillance in the entire fair area by 'Special-17' team

In view of the huge number of devotees, Yogi government has fielded 'Special-17' team for food security. This team is continuously inspecting and monitoring the shops, eateries and Bhandara sites in the entire fair area, so that there is no negligence at any level.

14 food safety officers deployed in seven zones

The entire Magh Mela area is divided into seven zones. 14 food safety officers have been deployed in each zone. These officers are being monitored by three Chief Food Safety Officers. Every community kitchen, storehouse, hotel, shop and eatery is being closely monitored.

Hi-tech surveillance and on-site food inspection

Five 'Food Safety on Wheels' vans have been deployed at Prayagraj Magh Mela. The quality of food items is being checked on the spot through these vans. Through this initiative, testing, training and awareness, all three tasks are being done simultaneously.

Oil quality check with digital oil monitor

Digital Frying Oil Monitor (DOM) equipment is being used to check the quality of oil used in frying foods. This is preventing repeated use of the same oil and ensuring strict adherence to health standards.

Intensive inspection campaign on hotels, dhabas and restaurants

Intensive inspection campaign is being conducted in the fair area, hotels, dhabas, restaurants and major roads. It has been made mandatory for food traders to have food license, rate list, wearing mask, hand gloves and head cover. Instructions have been given to treat the devotees respectfully and not to collect more than the prescribed price. Strict action is being taken against violation of rules.

Transparent monitoring through 'Food Safety Connect' app

Assistant Commissioner (Food) Sushil Kumar Singh in Prayagraj said that QR codes for Food Safety Connect App have been installed in the entire district and fair area. These QR codes have also been installed outside the food safety vans, so that devotees can easily download the app and give complaints or suggestions.

Transparency and awareness through rate list

Rate lists have been mandatorily posted at shops in the entire district including the fair area. Due to this, devotees are getting price information before purchasing and transparency is maintained. Along with inspection, awareness campaigns are also being conducted on all major routes.

Keeping an eye on every nook and corner from the camp office in Sector-3

A camp office of the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has been established in Sector-3 of the Magh Mela area. Food traders, voluntary organizations, Kalpavasis and devotees are being continuously made aware through pamphlets, LED vans and hoardings.

Special emphasis on prevention of adulteration and cleanliness

Through LED vans, messages are being given to the devotees to avoid adulteration and be alert. Shopkeepers have been asked to follow instructions like keeping water and food items covered, using dustbins with lids and not heating oil more than twice.