Nashik: A 14-day special drive conducted by Bhusawal railway authorities against unauthorised vendors has resulted in 305 offenders being apprehended across various stations and trains. Among these, 67 individuals faced prosecution, and total penalties amounted to Rs 97,950.
Crackdown Details
The enforcement operation, carried out between May 28 and June 10, covered key sections including Bhusawal-Khandwa, Bhusawal-Nashik, and Bhusawal-Badnera. The primary focus was on illegal food sales and overcharging activities.
Divisional commercial manager Bhanudas Tapaswi stated that the drive was extensive. “Checks were conducted at stations and on running trains. Vendors selling food items were inspected, and those engaged in any illegal business were handed over to the Railway Protection Force,” he explained.
Drinking Water Violations Top the List
Packaged drinking water violations emerged as the most common issue during the drive. A majority of vendors were caught selling unauthorised bottles or overcharging for water.
“During summer, demand for packaged drinking water, lassi, and buttermilk is high. Vendors often sell water bottles at Rs 20, but only Rail Neer or 17 approved brands can be sold, and strictly at Rs 14,” Tapaswi said. He added that several authorised vendors were also penalised for overpricing.
Passengers Urged to Ask for Bills
Railway authorities have advised passengers to insist on bills for every purchase to prevent overcharging and ensure accountability.
“Thermal printers are available with vendors, and passengers should always ask for a bill to verify correct pricing. Vendors in trains must carry pre-printed bills as receipts,” Tapaswi said. “If no bill is issued, the food item is free,” he added.
Officials noted that vendors caught overcharging or selling without issuing bills face a fine of Rs 5,000 per instance.
Only Authorised Vendors with ID Cards
Passengers have been urged to buy only from authorised vendors carrying valid identity cards. “Vendors must have unique ID cards, which are checked regularly by ticket examiners and RPF personnel,” Tapaswi said.
Report Irregularities via 139 or Rail Madad
Railways have also requested passengers to report irregularities immediately. “Passengers should buy only from licenced vendors and report any issues. Complaints can be registered on helpline 139 or through the Rail Madad portal for quick action,” Tapaswi said.
Officials confirmed that such drives will continue to curb illegal vending and ensure safe, fairly priced food for passengers.
