Insects in Vande Bharat Express Meals: Third Incident This Year Sparks Passenger Outrage Over Food Quality
Insects in Vande Bharat Express Meals: Third Incident This Year Sparks Passenger Outrage Over Food Quality
The Vande Bharat Express, India’s premier luxury train, has hit a rough patch. A passenger’s shocking discovery of insects in their breakfast package has raised serious concerns about the quality of food being served on board. Abhay Singh Sengar, a traveler on the Bhopal to Hazrat Nizamuddin route, was horrified to find unwelcome creatures in his meal as the train pulled into Jhansi railway station. “I was shocked and disgusted to see insects in my food,” Sengar said. “Despite complaining to the railway staff, I was not provided with a replacement packet and had to disembark at Gwalior without eating.”
This incident is not an isolated one. In February 2024, a cockroach was found in a passenger’s meal, and in July 2024, another passenger discovered a cockroach in their chapati. “It’s unacceptable that a luxury train like Vande Bharat Express serves food infested with insects,” said a passenger who had a similar experience.
The IRCTC has launched an investigation into the incident, promising strict action against the vendor responsible. “We take food safety very seriously and will take action against the vendor,” said R Bhattacharya, Regional Manager, IRCTC.
However, the frequency of such incidents raises concerns about the quality control measures in place. “This is not the first time we’ve heard of insects in food on Vande Bharat Express,” said a railway official. “We need to take a closer look at our food safety protocols.”
As the Indian Railways prepares to launch new Vande Bharat Express trains, it must address these concerns and ensure that passengers receive the high-quality food and service they expect from a luxury train.
