Palamu’s vibrant Maha Shivratri fair in Raghuakhar village became a site of concern when 20 children were struck down by food poisoning from golgappas. Organized in Dwarika panchayat under Panki block, the event attracted families from surrounding hamlets, but tainted pani puris led to a wave of illnesses including severe vomiting and dehydration.
Symptoms emerged late Sunday, escalating overnight. By dawn, worried parents alerted the Panki Community Health Center. Health workers arrived promptly with ambulances, evacuating the kids for immediate care. Thankfully, doctors say the cases are under control after examining over 100 children.
Eyewitness Dhruv Kumar Gupta recounted how his child fell ill post-fair snacking. Panki’s Dr. Mahendra Prasad detailed the quick deployment of resources, while District Civil Surgeon Dr. Anil Kumar Srivastava emphasized the contained threat.
In response, health officials have intensified patrols in the area and launched a public awareness drive on safe eating during melas. BJP leader Prakash Mehta, representing MLA Dr. Shashi Bhushan Mehta, inspected the facility alongside activists like Sunil Gupta and Roshan Singh.
This episode highlights ongoing challenges with food safety at rural festivals, where enthusiasm often overshadows precautions. Experts recommend regular inspections and hygiene training for vendors to avert future scares.