Kochi / Delhi: Following Tehelka’s report on more than 30 school students suffering food poisoning on board the Mangala Express while returning to Thrissur from Delhi, the Railways has taken cognizance of the matter and imposed a ₹5 lakh fine on the service provider.
The students, who boarded the Mangala Express (Train No. 12618) from Hazrat Nizamuddin on Friday morning, began experiencing discomfort by evening. The group consisted of 80 students and 10 teachers. The train reached Thrissur on Monday morning.
Medical Assistance Provided at Khandwa and Bhusaval Stations
The issue arose after passing the Itarsi station, past Bhopal. The children were left exhausted due to vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. After railway authorities were notified, medical assistance was provided, and the train was held for over 40 minutes at Khandwa station in Madhya Pradesh. The students were traveling in coaches S2 and S3. The Khandwa district administration also intervened in the matter. The students were examined, and 5 who experienced severe discomfort received additional medical care. A medical team remained on the train until it reached Bhusaval station.
Railways Statement: Matter Taken Very Seriously
In a statement issued on Monday, the Railways said: “The matter has been taken very seriously, and railway doctors provided immediate necessary medical assistance to the students at Khandwa and Bhusaval.”
The statement further added: “Additionally, the onboard IRCTC team ensured the provision of medical assistance along with easily digestible (convalescent) food for the remainder of the journey.”
Detailed Investigation Ordered; Food Samples Sent to Lab
The Railways noted that since no similar complaints were received from other students or passengers traveling with the same group, a detailed investigation is being conducted to determine the exact cause of the incident.
“As a precautionary measure, food samples have been collected by CHI/BSL and sent to an authorized laboratory for testing,” the statement said.
₹5 Lakh Fine Imposed on Service Provider
“However, given the seriousness of the incident and on a prima facie basis, a fine of ₹5.00 lakh has been imposed on the service provider,” the Railways stated.
Earlier Report Said No Anomalies Found in Pantry Food
In an earlier statement, the Railways had indicated that although an inspection was conducted, no anomalies or defects were found in the pantry food. However, following Tehelka’s report and the subsequent attention to the matter, the Railways has now taken stricter action, including imposing a fine and ordering a detailed investigation.
Students Reached Thrissur Safely
The students, who were traveling as part of a study tour, reached Thrissur on Monday morning. Parents and local authorities received them at the station. While most students have recovered, some are still under medical observation.
Tehelka’s Report Prompted Swift Action
Tehelka’s report on Sunday brought the incident to light, highlighting the plight of the students and the inadequate response from railway authorities. Following the report, the Railways swiftly took cognizance of the matter and announced punitive action against the service provider.
The incident has once again raised questions about food safety on trains, especially for long-distance journeys where passengers rely on pantry car meals for extended periods.
