More than 18,000 Dansals have been registered across Sri Lanka for the upcoming Poson Poya festival, according to the Public Health Inspectors’ (PHI) Union.
PHI Union Secretary Chamil Muthukuda said that 18,412 Dansals have been registered so far.
He stated that Public Health Inspectors will conduct inspections of Dansals scheduled to operate on June 30 and July 1 to ensure compliance with food safety and public health regulations.
In addition to Dansals, shops and temporary stalls operating within Poson festival zones will also be inspected throughout Poson week.
The PHI Union has urged Dansal organizers to avoid using plastic when serving food and beverages as part of efforts to reduce environmental pollution.
Organizers have also been warned against storing hot or cold food in polythene bags, with the Union emphasizing that such practices can pose serious health risks.
The PHI Union further called on organizers and the public to remain vigilant amid the ongoing dengue outbreak.
Officials noted that plastic cups and other disposable containers used during Dansals are often discarded improperly, creating potential mosquito breeding sites.
Accordingly, the Union urged all organizers and devotees to dispose of plastic waste responsibly, maintain proper sanitation around Dansal premises, and follow safe food handling practices to ensure a healthy and environmentally friendly Poson celebration.
