A recent passenger complaint on social media has put the spotlight on the onboard catering standards of Indian Railways, prompting IRCTC to take immediate action.
Catering Staff Wash Used Aluminium Casseroles in Coach Washbasin Area
On October 18, Shukul Pankaj, a passenger aboard Train No. 16601, observed a disturbing practice: catering staff washing used aluminium casseroles in the coach washbasin area. Concerned about hygiene and food safety, Pankaj raised the matter on the social media platform X, triggering swift follow-up by IRCTC authorities.
IRCTC Launches Prompt Inquiry, Vendor Explains Casseroles Were Washed for Recycling Purposes
Following the complaint, IRCTC officials contacted the passenger over the phone to verify the incident. An inquiry was initiated with the onboard vendor, who clarified that the aluminium casseroles were being washed solely for recycling purposes, not for reuse in meal service. While the explanation provided some context, IRCTC deemed the act inappropriate and unhygienic in view of passenger safety standards.
Immediate Action Taken: Vendor Deboarded, Waiter ID Blacklisted, and Apology Issued
As part of corrective measures, the vendor, Amarjeet Kumar, was deboarded at Khagaria railway junction. The licensee was instructed to submit all vendor-related documents upon the train’s arrival. Additionally, the waiter involved has had his ID card blacklisted to prevent future employment across the IRCTC network. Shukul Pankaj received a sincere apology from the authorities, who assured that strict measures would be implemented to prevent any recurrence.
IRCTC Proposes Hefty Fine and Contract Review to Strengthen Onboard Food Safety
To reinforce accountability, IRCTC has recommended a fine of Rs 5 lakh on the licensee, M/s Express Food Services, for the oversight. The authorities have also proposed issuing a show-cause notice that could lead to termination of the contract, sending a clear message about the importance of hygiene and passenger safety in catering operations.
Passenger Complaints on Social Media Lead to Swift Corrective Measures
This incident underscores the growing role of passengers in ensuring service standards through social media platforms. IRCTC’s rapid response demonstrates its commitment to maintaining food safety and hygiene standards onboard. Passengers can now expect stricter oversight and improved accountability from onboard catering services, making train journeys safer and more comfortable.
Catering Staff Wash Used Aluminium Casseroles in Coach Washbasin Area
On October 18, Shukul Pankaj, a passenger aboard Train No. 16601, observed a disturbing practice: catering staff washing used aluminium casseroles in the coach washbasin area. Concerned about hygiene and food safety, Pankaj raised the matter on the social media platform X, triggering swift follow-up by IRCTC authorities.
16601 Erode–Jogbani Vande Bharat catering staff demonstrating how recycling aluminium food-foil helps sustainability, conserves natural resources, and reduces pollution.
— THE SKIN DOCTOR (@theskindoctor13) October 19, 2025
They could’ve reused it without washing, but then, apart from environment, they care about your health too. pic.twitter.com/hIETMjjNPo
IRCTC Launches Prompt Inquiry, Vendor Explains Casseroles Were Washed for Recycling Purposes
Following the complaint, IRCTC officials contacted the passenger over the phone to verify the incident. An inquiry was initiated with the onboard vendor, who clarified that the aluminium casseroles were being washed solely for recycling purposes, not for reuse in meal service. While the explanation provided some context, IRCTC deemed the act inappropriate and unhygienic in view of passenger safety standards.
Immediate Action Taken: Vendor Deboarded, Waiter ID Blacklisted, and Apology Issued
As part of corrective measures, the vendor, Amarjeet Kumar, was deboarded at Khagaria railway junction. The licensee was instructed to submit all vendor-related documents upon the train’s arrival. Additionally, the waiter involved has had his ID card blacklisted to prevent future employment across the IRCTC network. Shukul Pankaj received a sincere apology from the authorities, who assured that strict measures would be implemented to prevent any recurrence.
IRCTC Proposes Hefty Fine and Contract Review to Strengthen Onboard Food Safety
To reinforce accountability, IRCTC has recommended a fine of Rs 5 lakh on the licensee, M/s Express Food Services, for the oversight. The authorities have also proposed issuing a show-cause notice that could lead to termination of the contract, sending a clear message about the importance of hygiene and passenger safety in catering operations.
Passenger Complaints on Social Media Lead to Swift Corrective Measures
This incident underscores the growing role of passengers in ensuring service standards through social media platforms. IRCTC’s rapid response demonstrates its commitment to maintaining food safety and hygiene standards onboard. Passengers can now expect stricter oversight and improved accountability from onboard catering services, making train journeys safer and more comfortable.
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