Toilet Utensil Wash Row on Duronto Express Sparks Massive Outrage

A major controversy has erupted over the quality and hygiene of food served on Indian trains after a viral video allegedly showed catering staff washing utensils inside a train toilet on the LTT–Ernakulam Duronto Express.

Following the video’s circulation on social media, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a notice to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), seeking clarification over the incident.

The case is linked to train number 12223, which operates between Lokmanya Tilak Terminus and Ernakulam. The viral clip allegedly shows catering staff cleaning utensils inside a restroom compartment of the train, triggering outrage among passengers and social media users.

FSSAI has reportedly termed the matter a serious violation of food safety and hygiene norms. Sources said the authority has sought a factual report from IRCTC and asked how such an incident was allowed to occur.

The controversy has once again raised concerns over the cleanliness standards maintained in railway catering services. Passengers have repeatedly complained in the past about unhygienic food handling, poor sanitation, and low-quality meals served on trains.

Under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, all food preparation, handling, cleaning, and dishwashing activities must be conducted in hygienic conditions.

The regulations strictly prohibit any practice that could contaminate food, utensils, or food-contact surfaces. According to FSSAI guidelines, washing utensils in train toilets is a direct violation of food safety standards and can pose serious health risks to passengers.

According to sources, FSSAI has asked IRCTC to verify the authenticity of the viral video and provide details about the steps being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

While no detailed official statement has yet been issued by the Railways or IRCTC, reports suggest that an internal inquiry has already been initiated.

Indian Railways has previously claimed that it modernised kitchens, introduced centralised food units, and strengthened monitoring mechanisms to improve catering standards. However, this latest controversy is expected to intensify scrutiny over railway food hygiene practices.

#IndianRailways #IRCTC #FSSAI #DurontoExpress #TrainFood