This worrying episode, captured by the media because of its national scope, has seen a passenger using the Vande Bharat Express on Friday find an insect in his meal, according to a disturbing report about food hygiene on what is described as one of India most high-end train services.
The incident occurred on July 22, 2025, on the Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22440) which was New Delhi-bound. A passenger seated on seat No 53 in coach C3 uploaded a picture on social media site X (known then as Twitter), which showed a black insect floating on the daal served inside an aluminium container. The photograph rapidly became viral, attracting criticism among the travelling population along with the mass audience as a whole.
Official Response from Railways
Reacting to the viral post, the official RailwaySeva handle issued an apology and requested further information.
“We regret the inconvenience! Please share the details, PNR and mobile number. You may also raise your concern directly on RailMadad for speedy redressal,” the response stated.
However, for many, the apology was not enough.
Public Outrage and Renewed Demands for Accountability
The Outrage by the People and Fresh Demands of Accountability The occurrence has reawakened the age-old questions about food quality and safety on Indian trains. Travelers and internet users are also now demanding enhanced monitoring of catering contractors, frequent maintenance checks on sanitary standards and a thorough education of staff to adhere to food safety precautIONS.
The Vande Bharat Express is not the first time to be criticized over such problems. The last year, a passenger reported that he detected insects in his sambhar at the same service. The said post also spread, and a trend has been revealed that can no longer be disregarded as an exceptional case.
A Contradiction to the Premium Promise?
The Vande Bharat Express that has been introduced as a part of the “Make in India” initiative represents a modern face of Indian rail travel. It is equipped with faster journey time, inbuilt safety features, and comfortable seats and is aimed at offering passengers a globally excellent travel experience. However, the otherwise excellent reputation of the train is tarnished by such an incident.
The utopia of high-quality onboard service should not be limited only to fast transportation and trendy interior designs, it should also ensure healthy, uncontaminated foods. The recurrence of cases of that nature has not only degraded confidence in authorities but cast serious doubt on whether much is being done to be able to facilitate the lowest common denominator towards health and safety.
A Change that is Required.
This should serve as a wakeup call to Vande Bharat and Indian Railways in general. There needs to be an immediate repair of food quality control systems, frequent third party audits, and a stronger passenger grievance redressal cell. Above all the accountability should ensue- there should be strict punishment to the vendors that do not adhere to hygiene standards.
Although the Vande Bharat Express has been considered a technological and operational landmark in the history of the Indian Railways, it is essential that the satisfaction and safety of the passengers should take the first place. Food quality and cleanliness is not an option, it is the essence of travel experience.
Meanwhile a solitary insect in a meal is enough to derail even the latest trains.
Swapnil is a passionate writer who specializes in creating engaging and informative articles. With a knack for storytelling, he covers a wide range of topics, providing readers with valuable insights and fresh perspectives. Whether it's about trends, lifestyle, or creativity, Swapnil's writing aims to educate, inspire, and entertain.