Sunday, 02 JUNE 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
The rain and thunderstorm witnessed in Dehradun on Saturday evening provided some relief on a day which saw the maximum temperature of about 42 degrees Celsius. With the relief forecast to be temporary and temperatures expected to remain high in the next few days, as they have been for about a fortnight now, the sale of sugarcane juice and other juices has significantly increased in the city. The hot weather has provided a boost to the business of roadside juice vendors during the daytime as people have been choosing sugarcane and other juices to quench their thirst. Despite the demand for sugarcane and other juices, doctors have advised people to refrain from consuming them and instead opt for homemade drinks like lemon water, buttermilk and other drinks.
A roadside sugarcane juice stall owner Ramesh Dev said that sale of sugarcane juice has seen risen by about 50 per cent in the month of May. Sugarcane juice is a cost-effective option for everyone, priced at just Rs 20. Individuals tend to gravitate towards juices sold on the roadside like sugarcane juice, pineapple and lemon soda when venturing outside to satisfy their thirst, he added.
Another roadside juice vendor Vipul Kumar said, “Amidst the hot weather I have been selling 200 to 300 glasses of sugarcane and other juices to customers daily. The demand for sugarcane juice is higher compared to other juices due to its affordability.”
Meanwhile, doctors have expressed concerns about this increasing demand for sugarcane juice and other beverages, advising people to avoid consuming them during the summer season. Physician at Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) Hospital Dr Naresh highlighted the risks associated with consuming unhygienic drinks like sugarcane juice and lemonade sold at street stalls, stating that they can lead to waterborne diseases, stomach infections and other health issues. To prevent such ailments he recommended choosing sealed packaged beverages or bringing homemade drinks and water when going outdoors.
“Hepatitis-A has become very common among people nowadays. The consumption of drinks outdoors like sugarcane juices, lemon soda and pineapple juice are the main reasons for this ailment. As a result, people suffer from vomiting, stomach infections and other issues. It’s important for people to drink homemade drinks like lemon water and carry their water whenever they are outside,” said senior physician at CMI hospital Dr Anshika Jain.
