Pune: Rat Spotted Twice At Vadapav Centre On NIBM Road: Public Raises Hygiene Concerns
Pune: Rat Spotted Twice At Vadapav Centre On NIBM Road: Public Raises Hygiene Concerns
Pune | August 2, 2025: A serious public hygiene concern has been raised against Shivshambho Vadapav Centre, a popular street food stall at NIBM Chowk, after repeated sightings of a rat near its food preparation area. The complaint, supported by video evidence and eyewitness accounts, has sparked concern among local residents.
The report was submitted by Amaan Patel, a Pune resident, who visited the food stall with his friends on Sunday. During the visit, they allegedly spotted a rat sitting on sliced potatoes meant for vadapav preparation. A second visit to the stall confirmed their fears when the rat was again seen moving near the pav and kitchen area — this time witnessed by 20 to 25 other customers.
“Not only was the rat on the potatoes, it was roaming freely around the kitchen and counter area where food is handled,” said Amaan, who documented both incidents on video.
When the group confronted the stall workers about the issue, they were reportedly met with rude and dismissive responses. One of the workers allegedly remarked, “Jo karna hai karo. Owner ke pocket mein license hai.”
What shocked the complainants even more was the stall owner’s response when informed about the rat. “Haan, pata hai. Chuha hai. Tang aa gaya hoon. Nahi jaa raha,” the staff allegedly said, admitting the rodent issue but showing no urgency in addressing it.
Amaan also highlighted other hygiene concerns, such as a dirty floor mop placed next to the pav stock, raising further doubts about food safety practices at the outlet.
The complainant has called for immediate action by local authorities and the food safety department to ensure public health is not compromised.
