Key Update

The multi-crore redevelopment of Ludhiana railway station has brought food safety to the forefront, especially during winter. To prevent fire hazards, gas leaks, and electrical accidents in active construction zones, railway authorities have prohibited all heating and cooking equipment on platforms. This includes electric stoves, gas cookers, and traditional coal-fired angeethis (coal-burning stoves used to cook or keep food warm).  While the move prioritises safety, it has also resulted in passengers having access only to cold snacks and beverages during harsh winter conditions, and vendors struggling to operate without basic food-warming facilities.

Safety Takes Priority

Railway headquarters issued the directive as a preventive food safety and workplace safety measure. Ongoing construction increases the risk of fires, smoke accumulation, and electrical faults, all of which can compromise passenger safety and hygiene standards. By removing cooking and warming infrastructure, authorities aim to eliminate these risks, leaving local officials with no flexibility to modify or relax the instructions.

Vendors Face Heavy Losses

According to the Ludhiana Vendors Co-operative Society, the ban has severely impacted its 48 registered members operating 24 authorised food carts and trays at the station. Without the ability to serve freshly prepared or warm food, vendors report a steady drop in sales. Many customers associate hot food with both comfort and safety during winter, and cold food options often fail to meet these expectations.

The cooperative’s president, Praveen Kumar, noted that although LPG stoves were banned four years ago due to safety concerns, small coal heaters were permitted until last winter. While vendors recognise the importance of safety, they believe authorities should explore temporary, controlled solutions that allow safe food warming without compromising construction-site safety.

Commuters Voice Concerns

Passengers have also raised concerns from a food safety and public convenience standpoint. Many find it unacceptable that a major railway station cannot provide safe, warm food during winter. If on-site cooking poses risks, commuters feel the railways should arrange alternative food safety–compliant solutions, such as centralised kitchens or insulated food supply systems. As Punjab continues to face an intense cold wave, vendors and passengers alike hope the redevelopment concludes soon, restoring access to safe, hot meals that have long been an integral part of railway travel in India.

Source: The Times of India