Ampati, July 25: The Commissionerate of Food Safety, Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, has issued a public advisory urging citizens across the State to refrain from consuming wild mushrooms and to protect rivers, streams, springs and other public water sources from chemical contamination during the ongoing monsoon season.
The advisory has been issued in view of recurring cases of mushroom poisoning reported during the rainy season and increasing concerns over contamination of water sources due to the improper handling and disposal of agricultural chemicals.
According to the Commissionerate, changing climatic conditions, including rising temperatures, erratic monsoon patterns and unpredictable weather, have altered the growth characteristics of wild mushrooms. As a result, even mushroom varieties that were traditionally considered edible may now contain harmful toxins, making identification based on conventional knowledge unreliable.
Citizens have been strongly advised not to collect, forage or consume wild mushrooms. Instead, they are encouraged to purchase mushrooms only from trusted and cultivated sources. The advisory emphasises that there is no simple or reliable method to determine whether a wild mushroom is safe for consumption.
The Commissionerate has also cautioned farmers and the general public against using or handling pesticides, insecticides and fungicides near rivers, streams, springs and other public water sources.
Washing agricultural sprayers or disposing of chemical residues in or around water bodies can contaminate drinking water, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall when chemical runoff is high.
Members of the public have been advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if symptoms of suspected mushroom poisoning or chemical exposure occur.
To ensure the advisory reaches all communities, Deputy Commissioners, District Medical and Health Officers, Block Development Officers, Food Safety Officers, Village Authorities, traditional institutions and community leaders have been requested to disseminate the information through public announcements, awareness campaigns and local communication channels throughout the monsoon season.
The Government of Meghalaya has appealed to all citizens to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to the safety guidelines to prevent avoidable illness, protect public health and safeguard the State’s water resources during the monsoon.
