Vande Bharat curd row: IRCTC terminates caterer

The IRCTC terminates caterer case centres on complaints about Amul curd quality. It concerns service on the Patna-Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation has moved against the catering licensee. It has also sought an explanation from Amul, as reported by The Economic Times.

IRCTC terminates caterer row after social media complaints

IRCTC said it was taking the food quality complaints seriously. Meanwhile, passengers had raised the issue online. In addition, the matter gained traction on social media. Also, the corporation ordered an immediate probe. It covered food quality and handling practices on the train.

Don’t miss…Brush Fire Along Tracks Hits Amtrak and SEPTA Service

“IRCTC has viewed the complaints very seriously about quality of Amul curd served in Patna-Tata Vande Bharat train,” the corporation said, adding that it has come down heavily on the licensee. “Apart from imposing hefty penalty, process of terminating the contract and blacklisting the licensee of the train, IRCTC has summoned the ‘Amul’ on 27th March for explanation about the grave Quality concern related to Amul Curd.”

As The Indian Express reported, the statement said IRCTC has been fined ₹10 lakh. Separately, the onboard service provider has been penalised ₹50 lakh. At the same time, it was also directed to terminate the contract.

Food quality concerns on Vande Bharat Express

Still, the case again draws attention to food quality. It also concerns premium trains such as Vande Bharat. Those services are promoted as offering a step-up in passenger experience. The complaints over spoiled Amul curd have put the focus back on onboard catering. They have also put the focus back on food handling and supply.

In recent years, IRCTC has tightened its rules on hygiene, packaging and vendor accountability. For example, those measures include penalties for lapses. They also include mandatory sourcing standards for branded food items.

Amul curd case widens vendor accountability

The decision to summon Amul is an unusual step involving a major FMCG supplier. Meanwhile, it suggests accountability could extend beyond the onboard vendor and IRCTC catering licensee. In addition, that accountability could reach upstream suppliers. IRCTC is looking to protect quality across its catering chain.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: