Bengaluru Ganesha Pandal Organisers Must Get FSSAI Clearance For Prasadam

With just two days left until Ganesha Chaturthi, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a warning to organisers, requiring that only FSSAI-certified prasadam be distributed at pandals.

In a communication to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the FSSAI emphasized that certification is mandatory for prasadam served at any Ganesha pandal in the city to ensure food quality and hygiene.

Organisers must now secure FSSAI certification in addition to the necessary permissions from the police, BBMP, Bescom, and other relevant agencies. The FSSAI has also warned that legal action will be taken against those distributing prasadam without its permit.

In addition to obtaining FSSAI certification, Ganesha pandal organisers in Bengaluru must also adhere to the following requirements:

1. Permits: Obtain necessary permits from local authorities such as the police, BBMP, and BESCOM before setting up idols in public areas.
2. Environmental Guidelines: Comply with specific environmental regulations set by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board for the pandals.
3. Safety Measures: Install CCTV cameras, fire extinguishers, and display emergency contact numbers at the venue to ensure safety.
4. No Objection Certificate: Secure a 'No Objection Certificate' from the fire brigade and obtain all required approvals from the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited for electrical wiring and decorations.