South Western Railway launches 14-day food safety drive, warns vendors

The South Western Railway has launched a 14-day special food safety drive across its network, warning that strict action will be taken against vendors violating prescribed standards. The drive, following Railway Board directives, covers hygiene, FSSAI licence validity, expiry dates and food-handling practices at all catering and vending establishments. SWR said its monitoring network includes 428 catering establishments across Bengaluru, Mysuru and Hubballi divisions, comprising 34 major units, 272 minor units, 122 IRCTC units, 38 pantry cars and key base kitchens.

In the 2026-27 period up to July, railway food safety officers conducted 271 inspections, issued 29 improvement notices and collected 170 food samples. Statutory proceedings were initiated against three samples found unfit. In the previous year, 2025-26, SWR conducted 4,373 surprise inspections and imposed Rs 5.22 lakh in penalties. A further 1,377 inspections up to July this year resulted in Rs 64,000 in penalties. SWR said field officials can issue show-cause notices, impose financial penalties and terminate contracts for irregularities such as improper storage, unauthorised packaging, unapproved food colours and expired stock.