PUNE:  Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 on the catering agency serving food in the dining car of Deccan Queen. A regular commuter from Pune complained after he found worms in an omelette served in the dining car.

The incident happened on July 19. The passenger, Sagar Kale, a resident of Somwar Peth, had registered a complaint in August with the railway administration at Pune junction.

Kale was travelling from Mumbai to Pune on-board the Deccan Queen. He visited the dining car and ordered the omelette. After it was served to him, he started sprinkling some pepper and sauce before consuming it. However, he saw worms and insects. He then approached the IRCTC staff, who said they would replace the dish. However, Kale still chose to make a video of the omelette served to him. On August 21, he lodged a formal complaint with Indian Railways.

According to IRCTC spokesperson, “After conducting an inquiry through the area officer, the allegations made by Kale were found to be true. Hence, licensee firm Boon Catering Company has been fined Rs 25,000.”

“Besides penalising the licensee providing catering services in the Deccan Queen’s dining car, we have also issued a warning to IRCTC’s duty supervisor, who is supposed to ensure the quality of food served,” said the spokesperson.

Harsha Shah, a commuter activist, said the penalty imposed on the catering provider is a good step. 

However, she suggested that the railways is not taking enough precaution to maintain the high standards that Deccan Queen’s dining car was known for years gone by.

“It’s a 90-year-old service. Indian Railways should ensure that an impeccable quality is maintained in the dining car, which is the country’s as well as Indian Railway’s heritage. 

There’s no doubt that since the catering contract was awarded to private players a few years ago, the food and service quality has suffered badly. What’s worse, that despite complaints, IRCTC often turns a blind eye towards the issues. It would be best if the responsibility of the dining car is taken over by the railway administration again,” said Shah.