The quality and hygiene of food served to Indian train passengers has once again come under serious question. Incidents of passengers keeping and washing food serving utensils inside the toilet of the Mumbai-Ernakulam Durant Express train have come to light. A video of this incidentAfter it went viral on social media, there was a strong reaction across the country. Taking the matter seriously, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a show cause notice to IRCTC seeking a reply.
The incident took place in the first AC coach of the Mumbai-Ernakulam Durant Express (12223). A video shared by some passengers on social media XAn employee is shown placing a basket full of dishes on top of a train toilet commode. These dishes are claimed to have been used to serve breakfast and dinner to passengers. In expensive and VIP coaches like First AC, common passengers have many concerns about health and cleanliness.
videoAfter the video went viral, people expressed their anger on social media. Many passengers have questioned what will happen to other general coaches if this happens in a safe coach like First AC. The passengers termed it as gross manipulation of public health and demanded strictest action against the guilty employees. FSSAI has clarified that any food service establishment is required by law to keep food and utensils in a sterile and clean place. IRCTC has been accused of keeping dishes in the train toilets in direct violation of food safety norms and if the investigation proves true, strict action will be taken against IRCTC.