Chennai Corporation has closed the canteen on the premises of Ripon Buildings following a recommendation from its health department.
According to sources in the health department, the 1500-sq ft canteen “is becoming a place not suitable for eating or preparation of food.”
Mayor Saidai S. Duraisamy had inspected the canteen and ordered its closure to prevent health hazards to people who used it. The step was taken as per the provisions of Section 44 of the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act.
Apparently, the canteen does not have a proper place to store food, and its kitchen functions under extremely unhygienic conditions. The building will be renovated in a few days, officials said.
Many visitors to the Ripon Buildings, who had come for various civic services, were unable to have lunch on the premises on Tuesday. The canteen serves as a cheap alternative for many of the employees of Ripon Buildings as well as those who visit the civic body every day.
Sources said the price of food in the canteen will be reduced considerably after the renovation. Steps will also be taken to improve the quality of the food.
