Cockroach Spotted at Hyderabad Airport Eatery

New Delhi, January 5, 2026: Public outrage has been ignited following the viral spread of a video captured at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad. On January 4, 2026, a traveler was observed recording a shocking scene at a prominent eatery located within the terminal. The footage, which has since amassed millions of views, depicts a live cockroach casually crawling inside a food display counter, moving perilously close to prepared food items intended for passengers.

Jeera Rice and Pest Infestations

In the viral clip, the insect was seen navigating the edges of a container filled with Jeera Rice, which was labeled with a price tag of ₹480. This specific detail has drawn intense criticism from netizens, who pointed out the stark contrast between the “premium prices” charged at the airport and the “substandard hygiene” being maintained. It was remarked by many travelers that such a lapse in a high-security, high-traffic international hub is not only disgusting but a significant health hazard for domestic and international flyers.

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Apathetic Staff Response Triggers Anger

The frustration of the passenger was seen escalating when the restaurant staff allegedly showed “little to no concern” upon being alerted to the pest. In the video, the staff’s reaction was described as dismissive, which further fueled the anger of the online community. It was reported that the passenger was left shocked by the lack of accountability, leading him to share the footage as a warning to other travelers. The eatery, identified by some reports as an outlet of a famous local brand, is now facing a massive “boycott” call on social media platforms.

Food Safety Authorities Take Cognisance

In response to the massive digital backlash, the Telangana Food Safety Task Force and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have been alerted. It was stated by officials that a surprise inspection would be conducted at the airport premises to verify the hygiene standards of all food courts. This incident follows a series of recent raids in Hyderabad where several “high-end” restaurants were found to have severe cockroach infestations and were utilizing expired ingredients, leading to a general sense of distrust among diners in 2026.

Demands for Strict Action at RGIA

As the video continues to trend, the management of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has been urged to enforce stricter sanitary protocols for its vendors. It was remarked by public health activists that international gateways must serve as benchmarks for cleanliness, and such “hygiene horror” stories tarnish the city’s global image. As of January 5, 2026, the airport administration has promised a “zero-tolerance policy” toward food safety violations, though passengers remain skeptical until visible changes are implemented across the terminal’s dining areas.