GHMC surprise inspections at Pista House outlets in Hyderabad: Hygiene violations found

Hyderabad: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Food Safety Wing conducted unannounced inspections at 25 Pista House restaurant outlets across the city amid rising public complaints.

Samples from 23 outlets were collected under the Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006, and related regulations for further testing.

Widespread kitchen hygiene lapses

Inspectors discovered multiple hygiene issues in the kitchens. Floors were often wet, slippery and uneven, posing safety hazards. Washing areas were unhygienic with patchy flooring and stagnant water.

Dustbins remained uncovered, increasing the risk of contamination.

Drains lacked proper traps to catch waste, while walls showed broken and missing tiles.

Refrigerators were not cleaned adequately. Chimneys were greasy and neglected, and housefly infestations were common. Openings lacked protective mesh screens, allowing insects easy access.

Unsafe food storage practices

Food storage conditions were equally concerning.

Some food items were found stored directly on the floor, and food was mixed with non-food items, violating basic safety norms. Storage racks were placed too close to the walls, limiting proper ventilation.

Lighting in storage areas was insufficient, complicating proper inspection and maintenance. Additionally, temperature logs for cold storage units were either incomplete or missing, undermining food preservation protocols.

GHMC vows strict action

The GHMC has emphasised its resolve to uphold food safety and public health standards across Hyderabad’s eateries.

Based on the inspection outcomes and lab analysis of collected samples, the corporation will take necessary punitive and corrective measures to ensure compliance.