GUJAR KHAN: The tally of people affected by food poisoning at a marriage ceremony in Dhoong village of Gujar Khan about two days ago crossed over 1,300 on Tuesday.

Assistant Commissioner Gujar Khan Khizar Zahoor Goraiya told Dawn that 1,303 affected patients had reported to the healthcare centres and 1,275 of them had been treated and discharged.

On Monday noon, because of the influx of a large number of patients an emergency was declared at the Basic Health Unit (BHU) Dhoong, Rural Health Centre (RHC) Daultala and the Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) Hospital Gujar Khan. He said medical officers and ambulances from different establishments were called in to ensure instant treatment of patients. Some serious patients were also referred to Rawalpindi hospitals. However, he added, no casualties were reported.

1,303 patients reported to healthcare centres and 1,275 of them treated and discharged, says AC

The AC said currently five patients were under treatment at the BHU, 20 at the RMC Daultala and three at the THQ hospital Gujar Khan.

A large number of guests after eating meals at an outdoor marriage ceremony on Sunday evening started complaining intestinal disorders and nonstop vomiting.

Kaleemullah Bhatti Advocate said this was not the only incident of food poisoning at a large scale in Gujar Khan, as according to him in October 2024 over 200 people had also suffered food poisoning at marriage ceremonies and restaurants while a boy lost his life and dozens others fell sick after eating a fast food (Shwarma) in Gujar Khan city.

Mr Bhatti said action should be taken against marriage halls, food catering outlets as well as restaurants violating health and hygiene SOPs. He suggested that holding of professional diplomas and certificates should be made mandatory for cooking and catering liscensing.

When contacted, Mr Akram, deputy director PFA, said all SOPs were being observed and implemented in food outlets. However, he said the marriage party in Gujar Khan village was at a private and open air location arranged by the family. He added that the set-up of the food manufacturer and caterer had been sealed and an FIR registered with Jatli police. Samples of the affected people have been sent for chemical examination, he added.

Published in Dawn, April 16th, 2025