Archive · 19 Jul 2026
E. coli found in Bengal’s puchka water
Doctors and health officials in West Bengal have found a harmful bacteria called E. coli in the water used to make puchkas, a popular street food.
Many people who ate puchkas recently got sick with stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The health department tested the water from puchka sellers and found the bacteria.
They are now telling vendors to use clean water and keep their food safe.
The government is also thinking about making rules to check the cleanliness of street food.
Doctors advise children and older people to be extra careful and avoid eating street food.
E. coli bacteria detected in puchka water samples from Hooghly’s Khanakul-Arambagh subdivision.
Increase in stomach infection cases among people who consumed puchkas.
Symptoms reported include stomach pain, vomiting, and loose motion.
Health department advises vendors to use sealed packaged drinking water and maintain hygiene.
Proposal to bring puchka sellers under Food Safety and Quality Control Department for regulation.
- Who
- Residents of Khanakul-Arambagh subdivision, health experts, and local authorities
- What
- Detection of E. coli in puchka water and rise in stomach infection cases
- When
- Recently, with increased cases reported
- Where
- Hooghly’s Khanakul-Arambagh subdivision, West Bengal
- Why
- Due to unhygienic practices by puchka vendors leading to contamination
- Location
- Hooghly’s Khanakul-Arambagh subdivision, West Bengal
- Bacteria Detected
- Escherichia coli (E. coli)
- Symptoms Reported
- Stomach pain, vomiting, loose motion
- Health Advisory
- Use sealed packaged drinking water, maintain cleanliness, cover food
- Action Taken
- Drives against unhygienic vendors, awareness campaigns
- Proposed Regulation
- Registration and licensing for vendors
- Vulnerable Groups
- Children and elderly people