Report

A passenger’s journey aboard the Vande Bharat train took an unpleasant turn when he discovered insects in the sambhar served during the trip. The incident occurred on the Tirunelveli to Chennai route and quickly went viral after the passenger shared visuals of the contaminated meal on social media.

The video showed black insects floating in the sambhar, leaving several social media users shocked at the quality of food served on the premium train service. The situation intensified when Congress MP Manickam Tagore shared the video and raised concerns over the hygiene standards aboard Vande Bharat trains. He tweeted, “Dear @AshwiniVaishnaw ji, live insects were found in the food served on the Tirunelveli-Chennai Vande Bharat Express. Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC’s accountability. What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains?”

Railways Fines Caterer Rs 50,000

In response, the Railways issued a statement confirming that it had launched an immediate investigation. A health inspector examined the food package at the Dindigul station and determined that the insect had been stuck to the lid of the aluminium container, rather than inside the sambhar itself.

As a result of this finding, the Railways imposed a Rs 50,000 fine on the catering service provider. The statement read, “Food samples were collected and sent for testing to ascertain the cause of the contamination. For this negligence, a penalty of Rs. 50,000 has been imposed on the contractor Ms Brindavan Food Products, and further action is being pursued.”

Previous Food Safety Issues on Vande Bharat Raise Concerns

The Railways added, “A detailed investigation is being conducted into the incident, considering all possibilities regarding the source of the contamination.” This is not the first food safety issue on Vande Bharat trains. Just a few months ago, another passenger reported finding a cockroach in their meal. Vande Bharat trains, part of the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, are known for their high speed, enhanced safety standards, and superior service. However, incidents like these have raised concerns about the quality of food served onboard.

Source: India Today