Passenger Finds Insect In Sambhar On Vande Bharat Meal, Railways Slaps Rs 50,000 Fine On Caterer

Officials noted that the insect adhered to the casserole lid, suggesting contamination occurred after the food was prepared. 

The Indian Railways levied a fine of Rs 50,000 on a catering service provider after a passenger discovered insects in the sambar served aboard the Vande Bharat Express travelling to Chennai Egmore. 

The passenger, journeying from Tirunelveli Junction to Chennai Egmore, was alarmed to find the contaminated food. In response to this, he lodged a complaint with the IRCTC. He also shared visual evidence of the incident, which garnered the attention of Congress MP Manickam Tagore, who voiced concerns regarding food safety standards on "premium trains."

"Dear Ashwini Vaishnaw ji live insects were found in the food served on the Tirunelveli-Chennai VandeBharatExpress. 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?" Manickam Tagore questioned the Railway Minister, tagging on social media handle X.

Food Samples Were Collected And Sent For Testing: Southern Railways

Responding to the incident, Southern Railway issued a notice regarding the insect found in Sambar saying, " Train No. 20666 (Tirunelveli - Chennai Egmore Vande Bharat Express): 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.

"The Railway is conducting a detailed investigation into the incident, considering all possibilities regarding the source of the contamination. The Railways remain committed to ensuring the quality of food provided to passengers, with regular inspections conducted on trains to monitor food standards. Passenger complaints are handled promptly through the Rail Madad system, ensuring timely resolution and follow-up, " it added.

According to a report by The Economic Times, a team comprising the Onboard Manager, Chief Catering Inspector (CIR), Chief Commercial Inspector (CCI), and Assistant Commercial Manager (ACM) conducted an investigation and identified the source of the food as the Tirunelveli base kitchen managed by Brindavan Food Products.

Officials noted that the insect adhered to the casserole lid, suggesting contamination occurred after the food was prepared. Additionally, inspections confirmed that the pantry area where the food was served was clean and free of insect activity.