Multiple Dansals with poor hygiene standards suspended

• PHIs accelerate inspections  
• 17 Dansals issued warnings 

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) have suspended eight Vesak  Dansals across the country after discovering food unfit for human  consumption.  

In addition to the suspensions, 17 Dansals were issued warnings for poor hygiene practices, officials said.  

The PHI Union has vowed to take stringent action against organisers who fail to adhere to proper health guidelines.   

“If organisers do not meet the required health standards,  we won’t hesitate to take action,” said Upul Rohana, Chairman of the PHI  Union. He added that inspections would be intensified during the Vesak  period to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.  

This year, 8,742 Dansals have been officially registered  across Sri Lanka to mark the Vesak festival, a significant increase  compared to the previous year. The Western Province, particularly the  Colombo Municipal Council area, has recorded the highest number of  registrations.  

Rohana also urged Dansal organisers to minimise the use of  polythene and plastic, encouraging eco-friendly alternatives in their  food distribution efforts.  

PHIs continue to appeal to the public to be cautious and to  report any suspicious or unhygienic food distribution stalls during the  Vesak season.