IRCTC Seizes Over 8,000 Unapproved Water Bottles and Food Items from Trains to Ensure Passenger Safety

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) increased the inspections across all over its network, which has resulted in the confiscation of over 8,000 unapproved packaged drinking water bottles, ice creams, and other food products, as per news reports.  

This initiative will aim to ensure that only safe and authorised items are available for passengers. 

IRCTC Inspection Initiative 

Between July 28, 2026, and August 8, 2026, checks in the Lucknow region led to the confiscation of 5,241 bottles of unapproved water on 117 trains.  

Also, the additional inspections in Chandigarh uncovered 3,108 bottles. 

Additional Confiscated Items 

Inspectors have also discovered unauthorised ice cream and flavoured milk.  

At Ambala on August 10, 2026, 13 cartons of such items were seized alongside and followed by another seizure at Saharanpur Railway Station.  

These efforts are aimed at maintaining compliance with food and beverage safety regulations. 

Broader Scope of Inspections 

IRCTC has expanded its inspections beyond the North Zone. At Sabarmati BG Railway Station, unapproved items were removed from Train Nos. 19223 and 19031. A surprise inspection at Howrah on August 8 resulted in the removal and disposal of unauthorised food and beverages. 

Actions Against Rule Violations 

Catering providers are warned against stocking unauthorised items. Violators face penalties under licence terms. IRCTC's strategy is to ensure accountability and improve hygiene standards for passengers, with QRTs continuing their intensive inspections in coordination with railway departments. 

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IRCTC's Commitment to Safety 

From August 8, 2026, to August 14, 2026, QRTs conducted on-board checks at locations such as Guwahati and Dibrugarh, targeting unauthorised items and other catering issues, including overcharging and hygiene violations, to ensure adherence to safety standards. 

Conclusion 

IRCTC's intensified checks have led to the seizure of 8,349 unapproved water bottles and numerous unauthorised food products, signalling stricter enforcement to safeguard passenger health and compliance with safety standards across railway zones. 

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