T’puram: Around 10 people were hospitalized after allegedly suffering food poisoning following consumption of shawai purchased from a shop in Kadakkavoor.According to officials, several residents who consumed shawai from ‘V Mart’, operating at Thekkumbhagam in Kadakkavoor, developed symptoms such as shortness of breath, vomiting and diarrhoea soon after consuming the food. They subsequently sought treatment at Chirayinkeezhu taluk hospital and a private hospital in the area.The affected persons, including residents of Kadakkavoor, Anchuthengu and Vakkom, underwent medical examination and were reportedly diagnosed with food poisoning.The incident came to the notice of Kadakkavoor grama panchayat after authorities at Chirayinkeezhu taluk hospital informed local officials about the admissions. Following this, panchayat representatives, along with health department officials, inspected the establishment and ordered its closure.Preliminary inquiries revealed that the outlet was allegedly functioning without mandatory licences from either grama panchayat or health department.Based on complaints lodged by those affected, Kadakkavoor police registered a case and took the hotel owner into custody. Further investigation is under way.The Kadakkavoor grama panchayat said stringent action would be initiated against the establishment for operating without the required licences and violating food safety norms.Health officials have also collected samples from the outlet for further examination and are awaiting detailed reports.
