Concerns have surfaced regarding the quality of meals being served on premium trains such as Vande Bharat Express and Tejas Express, with several passengers alleging that lunch and dinner provided onboard were substandard and, in some cases, had an unpleasant smell.
Complaints Over Food Quality
According to passengers who shared their experiences online, meals served during the journey did not meet expected hygiene or quality standards. Some travelers claimed that when they raised complaints with staff, they were either ignored or discouraged from escalating the issue.
Prepaid Yet Dissatisfied
Passengers pointed out that meals on these trains are often included in the ticket fare or paid for in advance. This has led to questions about why, despite prepaid catering charges, the quality of food reportedly does not match the premium image of the services.
Demand for Accountability
The allegations have sparked calls for stricter monitoring of catering contractors and improved quality checks. Travelers have demanded transparency regarding food sourcing, preparation standards, and inspection mechanisms.
Railway Authorities Expected to Respond
While railway authorities have not yet issued a detailed public clarification on the specific complaints, officials in the past have stated that food quality audits and surprise inspections are conducted regularly on premium trains.
Public Reaction
The issue has gained attention on social media, where passengers are urging the railways to take corrective measures to maintain the brand reputation of high-speed and luxury train services.
Experts say that consistent monitoring, third-party audits, and a stronger grievance redressal system could help restore passenger confidence.
