PUNE: The Pune airport authority has finally taken action against a food outlet located in the terminal building after receiving several complaints from passengers.  The outlet was selling packaged food above the maximum retail price (MRP). The authority has terminated the contract two years before its expiry.

“We have taken action against Sai Balaji Food and Beverages outlet, which was located inside the terminal building. We received complaints continuously from passengers about the food quality and overcharging. We don’t want such an outlet on the premises. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) is very particular about the food quality,” said Ajay Kumar, Director, Pune airport.

Two months ago, the authority received some complaints about the poor food quality from passengers. At that time, the authority had inspected all food outlets and issued instructions to them over poor quality, extra charges and stale food.

“The number of food outlets has increased in a few months. Passengers arriving at the airport need good quality food. All the food outlets have been instructed about the quality and rates. Checks are in place to monitor the same,” said Ajay Kumar.

At present, there are over 20 food outlets inside the terminal building. In order to provide cheaper options for passengers, a low-cost tea, coffee and water selling shop was opened a few months ago. Recently, the authority approved a tender to start vada pav and bhel outlets, which will be low cost.

Passengers are happy with action taken by the authority. Rajesh Nayak, an IT professional, said, “This is a good decision. The authority needs to check all the food outlets. Some are still selling food above the MRP.”