Alleged Food Reaction
A distressing event unfolded on the Varanasi–Deoghar Vande Bharat Express on March 27, 2026, when a passenger, Ayushi Singh, claims to have suffered a severe
allergic reaction shortly after consuming lunch provided on the train. Her symptoms were significant, leading to visible facial swelling. Singh documented her experience by sharing photographs of her condition on social media platform X, drawing attention to the incident and appealing to Indian Railways for a thorough investigation into the matter. She emphasized the potentially grave nature of her reaction, stating it "could have been life-threatening." Adding to her distress, her two-year-old son also reportedly developed diarrhoea during the same journey, further compounding their concerns about the food and water served.
Medical Concerns Raised
The severity of Ayushi Singh's allergic reaction was underscored by a subsequent medical consultation. Following the onset of her symptoms, she sought professional medical advice, and the doctor informed her of the critical nature of her condition. Singh recounted this consultation, stating that had she not sought immediate medical attention, the situation could have become life-threatening. This medical assessment validated her concerns about the food's impact. Furthermore, Singh noted an unusual taste in the water served on the train, adding another layer of suspicion regarding the quality of provisions during her journey. These observations, coupled with her physical symptoms and her son's illness, formed the basis of her complaint and her plea for an inquiry.
Official Response and Follow-Up
In response to the passenger's allegations, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) issued a statement through its official X account. IRCTC asserted that the food served on the specific Vande Bharat train journey in question had undergone checks and was found to be satisfactory. They also stated that no other complaints regarding the quality, hygiene, or safety of food had been received on that particular day. Despite this official response, Singh maintained her conviction that the train food was the sole cause of her and her son's ailments, as they had not consumed any other food or drink before boarding due to their early morning departure. She expressed her relief that no one else was affected but reiterated that her experience was real. Following Singh's insistence, IRCTC then requested her to share her Passenger Name Record (PNR) number and contact details via direct message to facilitate a deeper investigation into the matter.
Public Reaction and Recovery
Ayushi Singh's post concerning the alleged food reaction on the Vande Bharat train garnered significant attention and concern from fellow social media users. Many expressed their shock and sympathy, urging her to prioritize her health. In an update to her followers, Singh shared that she was in the process of recovering from the allergic reaction, with the facial swelling having completely subsided, although she was still undergoing medication. The supportive messages from other users highlighted the public's awareness and concern regarding passenger safety and food quality standards on Indian Railways. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of robust food safety checks and prompt grievance redressal mechanisms for passengers.
