Maharashtra Govt Allocates ₹3.02 Crore To Upgrade Mantralaya Kitchens

The Maharashtra government has sanctioned ₹3.02 crore to modernize the kitchens of the Mantralaya and Square Meal canteens at the state secretariat. This decision comes after concerns were raised over hygiene and food safety standards in the canteens.

The renovation plan includes civil repairs, electrical upgrades, and improvements to the exhaust systems. The kitchens will be equipped with stainless-steel, modular, and energy-efficient equipment. Additionally, HVAC systems will be installed to control heat, humidity, and smoke.

The existing exhaust systems were found to be inadequate, prompting the need for modernization. The government has allocated ₹38.42 lakh for repairs and renovation of the Mantralaya Canteen and ₹26.53 lakh for the Square Meal Canteen.

The work is scheduled to begin during the 2026-27 financial year and will have to comply with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms as well as fire safety regulations. A technical inspection conducted by Dr. Prashant Virkhare, head of the tourism department at Government Technical Institute, Nagpur, recommended structural repairs, improved flooring, upgraded kitchen equipment, and better hygiene facilities.

The decision to upgrade the kitchens also comes after a Bombay High Court-appointed panel inspected three canteens in Mantralaya on July 31. The panel flagged unhygienic conditions, including broken and exposed sewage and drainage systems, as well as cockroaches and flies on kitchen floors.

The Maharashtra government's decision to allocate funds for the upgrade of the Mantralaya canteen kitchens is a step towards ensuring the health and safety of employees and visitors. The modernization of the kitchens will provide a cleaner and more hygienic environment for food preparation.

The upgrade is expected to be completed within the scheduled timeframe, and the new facilities will be designed to meet the highest standards of food safety and hygiene. The Maharashtra government's commitment to improving the infrastructure of the state secretariat is a positive development, and the upgrade of the Mantralaya canteen kitchens is a significant step in this direction.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra government's decision to allocate ₹3.02 crore to upgrade the Mantralaya canteen kitchens is a welcome move. The modernization of the kitchens will provide a safer and more hygienic environment for food preparation, and will help to ensure the health and well-being of employees and visitors to the state secretariat.