VASCO
Panic gripped the Institute of Maritime Studies in Sada-Vasco after several students fell ill from suspected food poisoning, allegedly after having consumed chicken biryani on the campus.
According to sources, the students began complaining of severe stomach pain, vomiting, nausea, and loose motions shortly after the meal. While some were rushed for medical checkups, others had to be admitted to a private hospital in Vasco.
“The incident sparked alarm among students and parents. We have received complaints that biryani served in the institute could be the cause. Some students had to be hospitalised, but they are currently stable and under close observation,” a source revealed.
Mormugao Deputy Collector Bhagwant Karmali has taken serious note of the incident and initiated an enquiry.
“I have directed the Mormugao Police and the principal of the institute to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of contamination and fix accountability,” Karmali confirmed.
One concerned parent lodged a formal complaint with the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), following which officials visited the institute, collected food samples, and began their probe.
“The FDA has taken samples from the institute, and we are now awaiting the test results,” the source added.
The Mormugao police have also visited the premises and are continuing their investigation into the matter.
