Viral Video Shows Surat Vendor Washing Coriander in Filthy Sewage Water

Surat | Gujarat — Next time you are purchasing veggies from the roadside vendors, beware. Chances are that the veggies might have been washed in the filthy sewage water. In a shocking video captured by an aware citizen at Saharaj Darwaja in Surat, a vegetable vendor was caught on camera washing green coriander for sale in the filthy sewage water. A similar video emerged earlier this July.  Consequently, this marks the second incident occurring within a span of just four months.

Surat Municipal Corporation’s (SMC)  health officer Pradeep Umrigar has confirmed that they have now received information about the viral video.  An investigation is now underway.

Cilantro immersed in contaminated wastewater

A viral video shows a vegetable vendor washing green coriander in extremely dirty sewage water, all captured on camera by a passing biker.  This action poses a significant risk and is highly reckless in terms of public health.  An incident occurring in a bustling location such as Sahara Darwaza highlights a blatant disregard for food safety and hygiene regulations.

Residents are outraged following the viral video.

Local residents are expressing significant outrage following the viral video, prompting them to question accountability for any illnesses that may arise from consuming contaminated vegetables.  The swift response of the biker who recorded the video has brought this malpractice to the forefront.

Consuming this coriander sends bacteria straight to your stomach.

Using sewage water to wash vegetables undoubtedly leads to the adherence of harmful bacteria and germs, which can then enter the consumers’ stomachs, posing a significant health risk to the population.  Consuming vegetables rinsed with this contaminated water can lead to typhoid, diarrhea, vomiting, and other severe gastrointestinal illnesses for citizens.

Residents are calling for immediate action from the administration.

In the wake of the viral video, there has been a strong call for decisive action from the municipal corporation and the appropriate authorities.  Citizens demand an immediate fine for the seller responsible for this act.

Consuming vegetables washed in contaminated water can lead to lasting health issues.

In July 2025, a video surfaced showing a vegetable seller in the Pandesara area washing and selling vegetables using dirty rainwater collected from the road, capturing widespread attention online.  The release of this video sparked significant concerns regarding the well-being of the local population.  Subsequent to this, health officials from the Surat Municipal Corporation swiftly took action regarding the matter.  Manoj Pandey, the vegetable seller, was located, served with a notice, and subsequently fined Rs 500.

Inspect vegetables thoroughly before making your purchase.

Ensure that the vegetables you purchase are fresh, unblemished, and free from any signs of rot.  Steer clear of vegetables that feel overly soft or damp, as they have a higher chance of growing mold.

Clean them thoroughly

Gather your fresh vegetables and give them a thorough rinse under running water.  Avoid placing washed vegetables directly in the fridge.  Begin by laying them out on a cotton cloth and allowing them to dry slightly, ensuring all moisture is eliminated.

Maintain cleanliness of hands and utensils

Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before you start cutting those fresh vegetables.  Ensure your knife and chopping board are kept spotless.  Vegetables can become contaminated with bacteria through unclean hands or utensils.