Contamination Scare on Vande Bharat Express as Passenger Discovers Adhesive in Meal
Commuters traveling from Mysuru to Chennai reported finding a packet of industrial adhesive inside their IRCTC-catered meal trays. Southern Railway officials have initiated an investigation following a formal written complaint regarding the potential health hazard.
Safety Concerns Raised Over IRCTC Catering Standards
A journey on the Vande Bharat Express turned into a safety alert on Sunday when passengers identified a chemical contaminant in their onboard meals. During the transit of train number 20608, which runs from Mysuru to Chennai, travelers discovered an adhesive gel packet served alongside their food. D. Sekhar, a resident of Kathirvedu who was among those affected, characterized the presence of the glue as a significant oversight by the catering department.
Official Response and Formal Grievances
Upon discovering the foreign object, passengers immediately alerted the onboard ticket inspection staff. The encounter led to the following actions:
- Affected passengers submitted a formal written complaint detailing the breach of food safety.
- Complainants highlighted the potential medical risks posed by the proximity of industrial chemicals to consumable items.
- Railway authorities were urged to review the protocols of the specific food contractor involved.
Authorities Launch Probe Into Contractor Oversight
The incident has triggered a cross-zonal investigation within the railway network. A senior official from Southern Railway confirmed that the matter was escalated to both the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the South Western Railway for immediate intervention. The focus of the inquiry involves determining how a non-food item managed to bypass quality control checks at the catering unit before being distributed to commuters.
Source: The Hindu — Home
