The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that it is reviving its food truck policy after a year of dormancy. The policy will be implemented as a pilot project in two locations in Byculla, a bustling area in Mumbai, within the next two weeks. The focus of the policy is on providing balanced and nutritious meals through food trucks.
To ensure that the food trucks are stationed in optimal locations, the policy mandates that they be situated near parks or gardens, tourist locations, schools, colleges, universities, places of historical importance, and business parks that have a large influx of people. The locations have been selected to ensure that the food trucks have a steady flow of customers.
Ajaykumar Yadav, Assistant Commissioner, E ward said, “Seven zones in Mumbai will be marked for the purpose eventually, with a vehicle stationed in each zone. They will be purchased by BMC and given to beneficiaries who are financially needy – yellow or orange ration cardholders. We will invite applications soon. Although the stress is on healthy food, ovens will be provided for reheating.”
An official from BMCs health department said, “This is a draft policy and is yet to get a clearance from municipal commissioner. The licence and health departments are involved. All kinds of food can be prepared inside the truck but mandatory permissions from relevant departments should be sought.”
The policy is designed along the lines of the popular “Food on Wheels” model in the West, which emphasizes the provision of freshly cooked meals. The food trucks are expected to adhere to these standards and serve meals that are healthy and nutritious.
To operate, the food trucks must obtain permits from the BMC’s health, shops and establishments, and fire departments. They are allowed to use LPG, microwaves, and electric cooking units to prepare the food. This will enable the food trucks to provide freshly cooked, hygienic meals to customers.
Overall, the BMC’s food truck policy is a step towards providing Mumbai residents with more dining options, while also promoting healthy and balanced meals. By ensuring that the food trucks are located in high-traffic areas and adhering to strict standards, the BMC hopes to create a successful and sustainable food truck ecosystem in the city.
