GHMC has issued a slew of directives to fruit-sellers in the city for maintenance of hygiene in view of summer.

Fruits, especially water melons, should not be kept in the open, and only ripened fruits should be served, it said.

Carbide or any other chemical should not be used for artificial ripening. Fruits should be washed before being cut.

Cutting tools should be free from rust and cleaned in hot water before use, the advisory said.

Ice should not be used for storing fruits or while serving. Hand gloves are a must, and the fruits must be covered properly, free from flies and dust. Garbage bins with lids should be used to deposit the waste, which should not be thrown in the open or in drains.

Chief Medical Officer, GHMC, has asked the Assistant Medical Officers, Health, to sensitise the fruit sellers in their respective circles about the directions, officials informed. Action will be initiated against the violators under the relevant legal provisions, a statement from GHMC warned.