Hyderabad Restaurant Ordered to Close Kitchen Over Serious Hygiene Violations

Hyderabad's Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC) has directed the immediate suspension of kitchen operations at Bahar Cafe located in Madinaguda, after its food safety inspectors uncovered numerous violations during a routine check on June 18.

The inspection, conducted as part of CMC's ongoing food safety monitoring programme across Cyberabad, examined the establishment's adherence to hygiene standards, food handling protocols, and regulatory compliance. While inspectors confirmed that the restaurant held a valid FSSAI licence displayed on the premises, they identified significant deficiencies throughout the facility.

Among the critical issues documented were water pooling near the RO dispenser that posed safety concerns, and the absence of water quality testing records for cooking and drinking water supplies. Inspectors also noted that the staff toilet door opened directly into operational zones, a serious breach of food safety protocols.

The kitchen area itself presented multiple hazards. The inspection team found an unclean ceiling, inadequate lighting levels, broken flooring, and damaged infrastructure in the washing section. Open drains and accumulation of food waste were also observed within the premises.

Food preparation practices fell short of required standards as well. Prepared items lacked proper identification labels and expiry date markings. The equipment in use included worn-out chopping boards and deteriorating iron knives. Additionally, the establishment failed to maintain medical fitness documentation for its food handlers.

Following these findings, CMC issued a formal show cause notice to the establishment and mandated the suspension of all kitchen operations pending comprehensive remediation. Management has been instructed to immediately comply with food safety regulations and address every identified deficiency.

The establishment received a hygiene assessment score of 38 out of 96, equivalent to 40 per cent. The corporation has indicated its commitment to continuing regular inspections throughout Cyberabad to maintain food safety standards and protect public health.