Passengers on the Awadh Express were unknowingly being served spoiled food until railway officials swooped in at Kota station on Thursday. The joint surprise check targeted the pantry car of this vital Maharashtra-Bihar route, prioritizing hygienic meal services.
Under the guidance of Divisional Commercial Manager Kishor Kumar Patel, inspectors delved deep into storage areas. What they found left them stunned: poor-quality raw foods like rotten potatoes and eggs, amid filthy conditions that screamed neglect.
Senior official Saurabh Jain detailed how items including poha, dal, and chana failed safety tests. Deemed hazardous, the entire stock was seized on-site by health experts and disposed of promptly along the railway tracks.
Post-raid, the catering agency received a severe reprimand, financial penalties, and orders for corrective measures. The team included top inspectors and IRCTC representatives, all united in upholding food quality.
This crackdown highlights railways’ zero-tolerance policy. Travelers can expect continued scrutiny to safeguard health on every trip, turning potential disasters into lessons for better accountability.