The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified inspections across the state, cracking down on several iconic and popular eateries over food safety and hygiene violations. Following suit, Indian Railways has also launched an inspection drive across railway stations, checking food stalls and canteens for food safety lapses and hygiene standards.
Indian Railways Follows Maharashtra FDA’s Lead
According to a Hindustan Times report, Indian Railways has kicked off an inspection drive at food stalls and canteens across railway stations, taking a cue from the Maharashtra FDA’s recent crackdown on eateries. The first major action came on Thursday, when Central Railway (CR) sealed a food stall at Thane railway station after inspectors reportedly found serious hygiene violations.
During the inspection, officials allegedly discovered a rat in the stall’s cooking area feeding on vegetables. Following the findings, the multi-purpose stall, located inside the commuters’ waiting room, was ordered to remain shut for seven days. A Central Railway official told the publication that the incident has prompted a wider inspection drive, with food stalls, canteens and catering units across Mumbai’s suburban railway network now set to undergo food safety and hygiene checks.
Also Read: Maharashtra: No Vada Pav, Chips, Chocolates In & Around Schools Anymore; FDA Bans HFSS Foods
Stall Sealed At Thane Railway Station After Complaints
Based on a complaint on social media regarding unhygienic conditions at the Multi-Purpose Stall in the waiting room, Thane station, corrective action was taken by Central Railway.The stall has been sealed for 7 days & a penalty of Rs. 15,000 has also been imposed on the Contactor pic.twitter.com/ubIL8IvlfK
— Sr DCM Mumbai CR (@srdcmmumbaicr) July 31, 2026
The move comes as food safety remains under the spotlight, with the Maharashtra FDA recently ramping up inspections at eateries and catering establishments across the state. Railway officials said similar checks will now be carried out at licensed food stalls and canteens, with vendors found flouting hygiene and food safety norms facing penalties, temporary closures or stricter action for repeat offences.
Passengers have also been urged to report complaints related to food quality, hygiene, catering services or other station facilities through the RailMadad grievance portal. Officials said public feedback will help improve service standards and ensure better compliance with food safety norms.
Regarding the Thane eatery, CR said the action was initiated after it received a complaint on social media about poor hygiene at the food stall in Thane station. After verifying the complaint, railway officials took immediate action against the contractor operating the outlet. The stall has been sealed for seven days, and a penalty of ₹15,000 has been imposed. CR added that it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards unhygienic conditions at catering and commercial establishments operating on railway premises.
Also Read: Cockroach Infestation To Unsafe Food Practices, THESE 5 Mumbai Clubs Face FDA Action
Do you think Indian Railways’ inspection drive at food stalls and canteens will improve food safety at the stations? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@srdcmmumbaicr
FAQs
Why has Indian Railways started inspecting food stalls at stations?
The inspection drive aims to improve food safety and hygiene standards at railway stations. The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of food safety following the Maharashtra FDA's recent crackdown on eateries across the state.
What action can vendors face for violating food safety norms?
Vendors found flouting hygiene and food safety regulations could face penalties, temporary closure of their stalls or stricter action in case of repeated violations.
What is RailMadad?
RailMadad is Indian Railways' official grievance redressal platform where passengers can report issues related to cleanliness, catering, staff behaviour, station facilities and other railway services.