June 29, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities have stepped up preparations for the Poson festival, with more than 18,400 Dansals registered across the country and inspections set to intensify to ensure food safety and public health standards are maintained.
The Public Health Inspectors’ (PHI) Union said 18,412 Dansals have been officially registered ahead of the annual religious observance. Union Secretary Chamil Muthukuda stated that PHIs will conduct inspections at Dansals operating on 30 June and 1 July to ensure food is prepared, stored and distributed in hygienic conditions.
In addition to inspecting Dansals, health officials will monitor shops and temporary food stalls operating within Poson festival zones throughout the festive period to ensure compliance with public health regulations.
The PHI Union has also appealed to organisers to minimise the use of single-use plastics when serving food and drinks, warning that improper food storage—particularly keeping hot or cold food in polythene bags—can pose serious health hazards. Organisers have been advised to follow recommended food handling and storage practices to safeguard devotees.
With dengue cases continuing to be reported in several parts of the country, the Union has urged both organisers and the public to remain vigilant. It warned that discarded plastic cups, bottles and other disposable containers can collect rainwater and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes if not disposed of properly.
Health officials have therefore called on everyone taking part in Poson celebrations to dispose of waste responsibly and help maintain a clean environment while reducing the risk of disease transmission during the festival.