IRCTC Fines Caterer ₹1 Lakh Over Fly Found in Rajdhani Meal

A passenger travelling on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai Tejas Rajdhani Express raised a complaint after discovering a fly in the veg biryani served as part of the onboard meal. The train captain and catering manager immediately attended to the passenger, apologised for the inconvenience, and offered a replacement meal, which was declined. Following the incident, IRCTC imposed a ₹1 lakh fine on the catering firm, Araha Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., and issued a show-cause notice for possible termination of its licence. The company was instructed to strengthen food safety, hygiene, quality control, and packaging practices, while ensuring the use of fresh raw materials and proper storage to prevent contamination. IRCTC stated that strict corrective measures have been directed to avoid similar incidents and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high food safety standards across Indian Railways, where nearly 16 lakh meals are served daily.