MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Food Authority Muzaffarabad has decided to enforce clean water system in the city’s educational institutions by inspecting installed water filtration plants so that health of the children could be protected.
The authority issued notices to the management of schools having plants non-functional, believing that children are the most precious asset of any nation and the guarantee of a bright future.
It goes without saying that clean and safe drinking water is a basic necessity for children’s physical and mental development, while contaminated water can cause various diseases.
For this purpose, the Food Authority Muzaffarabad has launched a special inspection campaign to ensure the provision of clean and safe drinking water to students at educational institutions.
A team from the Food Authority Muzaffarabad visited various government and private educational institutions in the city to conduct a detailed review of water filtration plants, water coolers, and water storage arrangements.
During the inspection, several educational institutions were found to have non-functional water filtration plants, while some institutions did not have any filtration systems at all.
The Food Authority team also observed in detail the implementation of instructions issued regarding the protection of students’ health, by reviewing the water supply system, the functionality of filtration systems, cleanliness arrangements, and the condition of water containers.
During the inspection, notices were issued to the responsible officials of the concerned institutions for non-functional filtration plants and the absence of required arrangements, instructing them to activate the filtration systems and ensure the provision of clean drinking water to students within one week.
Food Authority officials clarified that providing safe and quality drinking water to children studying in educational institutions is responsibility of the institution.
According to the Food Authority, in view of the health and welfare of children in educational institutions, the provision of clean water and safe food is essential as per Pure Food Regulations.
“Ensure timely repair of water filtration plants”
Institutions have been instructed to ensure timely repair of water filtration plants, replacement of filters, regular cleaning, and maintenance to prevent waterborne diseases.
District Food Controller Muzaffarabad, Abrar Ahmed Mir, further stated that another inspection would be conducted after the specified period.
He reiterated the commitment that the Food Authority would continue its monitoring and corrective measures to ensure the provision of clean, safe, and quality drinking water to children.
