In a shocking incident that has sent ripples of disgust through the community, a frozen dead rat was discovered embedded within a block of ice in a chiller allegedly sourced from an ice-manufacturing factory in Pune’s Junnar. The unsettling find has prompted serious questions regarding hygiene standards and public health safety.
The discovery was made by a wholesale and retail ice vendor, responsible for supplying bulk ice blocks to various establishments including factories, hotels, restaurants, and street vendors. The vendor stumbled upon the ghastly sight of the rodent protruding from its icy enclosure, purportedly sourced from a unit in Junnar. Promptly, the vendor and bystanders captured several photos and videos of the disturbing scene, which quickly circulated on social media platforms, igniting a wave of public outrage.
Criticism has been directed towards Pune district officials, the state Food & Drugs Administration, and other relevant agencies for what is seen as a severe oversight, particularly during the peak of the summer season when ice and ice-based products are in high demand. Concerned citizens have called for stringent raids and inspections by authorities to evaluate adherence to health and hygiene standards within such facilities. Demands for swift and decisive action against any identified lapses in this regard have been vocalized.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another alarming discovery in the region, wherein samosas were found to be adulterated with various harmful substances including used condom packs, tobacco, pebbles, and sand. The contaminated samosas were served at the staff canteen of an automobile major in the neighboring twin city of Pimpri-Chinchwad.
In response to this egregious violation, Pune Police have taken action, booking five individuals associated with an external private food caterer. One individual has been arrested and is currently in judicial custody until April 22, pending further investigation. Senior Police Inspector Dnyaneshwar Katkar of Chikhli Police Station confirmed the ongoing probe into the matter.
