Thiruvananthapuram: In view of the Attukal Pongala festival, the District Collector has declared a local holiday for Thiruvananthapuram district on March 3.
All educational institutions, government, and quasi-government offices within the district will remain closed on this day. To ensure public order and safety, a liquor ban has been imposed across all wards of the City Corporation and the Vellar ward of Venganoor Grama Panchayat. The ban will be in effect from 6:00 PM on March 2 until 6:00 PM on March 3.
Strict Food Safety Protocols
The District Medical Officer (DMO) has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure health and hygiene during the festivities. Organizers and food stalls are mandated to follow these protocols strictly:
- Water Quality: Only purified water should be used for cooking and drinking. Water sources in the festival zones must be chlorinated, and institutions must hold a water test certificate from an authorized lab.
- Hygiene Standards: Food handlers must possess a valid Health Card and maintain high personal hygiene. Food must be prepared and stored in clean, closed environments—cooking in open spaces is prohibited.
- Oil and Ingredients: Reusing oil for frying is strictly forbidden. All fruits and vegetables must be thoroughly washed before use.
- Licensing: All food establishments must have FSSAI registration/license. The Food Safety toll-free number (1800 424 1125) must be clearly displayed at cash counters.
- Green Protocol: Organizers of Annadanam (mass food distribution) must adhere to the Green Protocol. The use of prohibited plastics and wrapping food in newspapers is banned.
- Waste Management: Solid and liquid waste must be disposed of scientifically on the same day.
Health and Public Safety
The DMO further specified that individuals suffering from infectious diseases like jaundice, typhoid, or diarrhea are prohibited from cooking or serving food.
Important Note: Public displays of “No Smoking” signs are mandatory, and the sale of tobacco or intoxicating substances is strictly prohibited in the festival area.
Furthermore, the public is advised to avoid getting tattoos or piercings from unlicensed stalls at the festival grounds to prevent health risks.
