The Ministry of Railways recently responded to a troubling incident involving food safety on the Vande Bharat Express. A video circulated on social media showing worms in a passenger’s meal, prompting swift action from officials. As a result, penalties were imposed: IRCTC received a ₹10 lakh fine, while the catering vendor faced a ₹50 lakh penalty and was ordered to terminate their contract.
This incident took place on March 15, 2026, during a journey from Patna to Tatanagar. In the video, passengers confronted an attendant after discovering live worms in their curd. Initially, the staff dismissed the concerns, claiming the worms were merely saffron. However, the situation escalated as passengers revealed that the issue extended beyond just the curd, raising serious health concerns.
The Ministry of Railways took the complaint seriously, emphasizing that food quality and passenger safety are top priorities. They publicly acknowledged the mistake and acted quickly to address it.
Social media reactions were overwhelming, with many users expressing their refusal to eat food on trains. Comments ranged from those sharing similar experiences to others describing their long-standing distrust in railway food. A user mentioned they hadn’t eaten railway food in years due to health worries.
According to a 2022 survey from Rail Yatra, 65% of passengers reported concerns about food safety while traveling by train. This highlights a broader issue within the rail system that needs attention.
To put this in context, food safety issues in public transport are not new. In 2019, a similar situation arose involving expired meals on flights. Travelers today are more vocal about their experiences, often sharing them rapidly online, which amplifies accountability.
This incident serves as a reminder that vigilance is key in ensuring traveler safety and quality service. Increased transparency and communication from services like IRCTC could help rebuild trust among passengers moving forward. For more details on the Railways’ response, you can check the official Ministry of Railways statement.
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