Pune Airport Food Outlet Shut Down After Viral Cockroach Video

Authorities at Pune Airport have temporarily closed a prominent food establishment within the terminal building after footage circulated online revealing a cockroach crawling near items inside a display case. The video, originally posted on the social media platform X by the handle @PuneDistrict, quickly accumulated more than 10,000 likes alongside severe criticism from passengers regarding terminal hygiene standards.

The clip specifically targeted the cleanliness of the cafe and tagged Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe to demand immediate intervention. Following the online backlash, Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke confirmed that Balaji Caterers, the master concessionaire responsible for all food and beverage operations at the terminal, took swift disciplinary action.

A popular eatery at Pune Airport was temporarily closed after a viral video revealed a cockroach crawling near food items.

At present, the facility contains approximately 16 dining outlets across its premises. In response to the incident, airport officials announced that all eateries operating within the terminal will face increased scrutiny and unannounced inspections moving forward. Regular flyers expressed strong support for the suspension, noting that customers pay premium prices for meals at the terminal—where basic items like a sandwich and bottled water can reach up to ₹1,000—and rightly demand strict cleanliness standards in return.

Why it matters

This temporary closure highlights growing concerns over hygiene and consumer rights for travelers passing through the busy transit hub. As airport management introduces stricter surprise inspections for all operating eateries, the development serves as a warning to concessionaires about maintaining rigorous cleanliness standards for premium-priced passenger services.