A routine train journey turned unsettling for a Mumbai passenger travelling on a Vande Bharat train from Ahmedabad after an insect was reportedly found in the onboard meal.
The passenger took to X to share photos and videos showing what appeared to be a cockroach-like insect inside a dal-chawal meal box. According to the post, at least two such incidents were noticed in the same coach, prompting several passengers to stop eating altogether.
Calling out the lapse, the passenger tagged authorities and wrote, "Just one request to the authorities, please raid them. I am certain the food is not being prepared as per FSSAI standards. When found guilty, their license should be cancelled. Hope this doesn't get settled through bribes."
He also identified the vendor as M/S Brandavan Food Products, part of the RK Group.
Reacting quickly, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation acknowledged the issue and announced strong action against the service provider.
"Inconvenience caused is deeply regretted. The matter has been viewed with utmost seriousness and a hefty penalty of Rs 10 lakh along with termination notice of the contract is being issued to the Service Provider," IRCTC said.
It added, "The kitchen is sealed for deep cleaning and pest control. Hygiene and passenger safety remains our top most priority."
The incident quickly gained traction online, with many users expressing concern over food safety on trains.
"Thats why i never opt for catering services instead i use zomato outside resturant in city atleast has some quality compared to train food," one user wrote.
Another commented, "Multiple recent incidents. Same negligence. At what point does this become a serious public health concern? Passengers deserve better than repeated apologies."