A major controversy has erupted involving onboard catering hygiene in Indian Railways after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India officially issued a notice to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation over disturbing food handling practices captured inside a long-distance train.
The incident, linked to the Mumbai LTT – Ernakulam Duronto Express, has triggered widespread public outrage after videos showing catering staff washing food service items near train toilets went viral on social media.
The food regulator has now demanded an explanation from IRCTC and warned that the incident may amount to serious violations of food safety laws and passenger hygiene standards.
What Happened on the Duronto Express?
The controversy centers around:
Train No. 12223 – Mumbai LTT to Ernakulam Duronto Express
According to viral footage circulating online:
Catering staff were allegedly seen:
- Washing food plates near toilet premises
- Cleaning utensils inside washroom areas
- Storing catering crates adjacent to train toilets
- Handling food service materials in unhygienic conditions
The incident reportedly occurred inside:
H1 Coach During Lunch Service
The visuals triggered strong reactions from railway passengers and social media users nationwide.
Why FSSAI Took Action
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India took:
Suo Motu Cognizance
meaning the regulator acted independently after observing the viral footage.
Violation of Food Safety Rules
FSSAI stated that the practices shown in the video directly violate:
Schedule 4 of Food Safety & Standards Regulations, 2011
These regulations mandate:
Hygienic food handling
Clean processing areas
Safe washing practices
Prevention of contamination
Proper sanitation standards
The regulator emphasized that such behavior:
Poses Serious Public Health Risks
especially during long-distance rail travel.
FSSAI’s Official Notice to IRCTC
The food safety authority has reportedly:
- Sought a detailed explanation from IRCTC
- Requested factual comments on the incident
- Asked for corrective measures
- Warned of potential administrative or penal action
Further action may depend on IRCTC’s official response and internal investigation findings.
Growing Concerns About Railway Catering Hygiene
The incident has reignited concerns regarding:
- Pantry car hygiene
- Food storage standards
- Water cleanliness
- Catering contractor monitoring
- Passenger food safety on trains
Indian Railways serves millions of meals daily, making hygiene compliance critical for public health.
About IRCTC Catering Services
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation
IRCTC manages:
- Pantry services
- E-catering
- Railway food vendors
- Premium train catering
- Tourism packages
The corporation is responsible for maintaining food quality and hygiene standards across railway catering operations.
Passenger Safety Advisory for Train Travelers
Following the controversy, passengers are being advised to remain cautious while ordering onboard food.
1. Accept Only Properly Sealed Food
Always check:
- Sealed packaging
- Freshness
- Proper labeling
- Manufacturing details
Avoid tampered or open food containers.
2. Avoid Loose Open Food Items
Avoid:
- Open trays
- Exposed snacks
- Uncovered food baskets
- Food stored improperly near washrooms
3. Report Hygiene Violations Immediately
Passengers can instantly report issues through:
RailMadad App
or
Railway Helpline 139
Complaints can include:
- Dirty pantry conditions
- Unhygienic food handling
- Expired food
- Poor water quality
- Staff misconduct
Safe Alternative: IRCTC E-Catering
Many passengers now prefer:
IRCTC E-Catering Services
Benefits include:
Restaurant-based meals
Online ordering
Station delivery
Brand-certified food outlets
Better packaging standards
Passengers can pre-order food from approved restaurants through official railway platforms.
Public Reaction on Social Media
The viral video sparked outrage online, with many passengers expressing concerns over:
- Railway hygiene
- Passenger health risks
- Pantry contractor accountability
- Food contamination dangers
Travelers have demanded:
Strict inspections
CCTV monitoring
Blacklisting violators
Stronger food safety audits
How Indian Railways May Strengthen Food Safety
Following the incident, experts expect increased focus on:
- Surprise pantry inspections
- Digital monitoring systems
- Catering contractor penalties
- Food handling audits
- Hygiene training programs
The controversy may accelerate stricter enforcement of railway food standards nationwide.
Important Tips Before Ordering Train Food
Prefer E-Catering
Safer and more traceable.
Check Pantry Cleanliness
Observe staff hygiene before accepting meals.
Carry Basic Essentials
Keep:
- Sanitizer
- Water bottles
- Wet wipes
- Packaged snacks
especially during long journeys.
Report Violations Quickly
Immediate complaints help authorities take faster action.
FAQs – FSSAI Notice to IRCTC
Which train was involved in the controversy?
Train No. 12223 Mumbai LTT – Ernakulam Duronto Express.
What was the violation?
Catering staff were allegedly washing utensils near train toilets.
Which authority issued the notice?
FSSAI issued the notice to IRCTC.
Why is the issue serious?
It may lead to food contamination and public health risks.
How can passengers complain?
Using RailMadad app or railway helpline 139.
Is e-catering safer?
Many passengers prefer certified e-catering meals from approved restaurants.
Conclusion
The latest notice issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation has once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger hygiene enforcement in railway catering operations.
As millions of passengers depend on onboard food services daily, maintaining strict sanitation and food safety standards is essential for protecting public health and restoring passenger trust in Indian Railways catering systems.
Passengers are encouraged to stay alert, verify food quality, and immediately report any unhygienic practices during train travel.
0 Comments