If you frequently travel by train, this is an important update for you. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced the implementation of its e-pantry service on mail and express trains. Passengers have long complained about overpriced food, substandard quality, or harassment by unauthorized vendors. To address these issues, the Railways has expanded its digital meal booking system.
IRCTC e-pantry service launched
Until now, this service has been limited to select premium trains. However, the Railways have gradually started implementing it on regular long-distance mail and express trains as well. Initially, the service was launched on 25 trains. Based on passenger feedback and operational success, it will be expanded to other trains.
What is the e-pantry service?
The e-pantry is a digital platform-based food booking system. This service is integrated with the IRCTC ticketing system. Passengers can select their meals online while booking their tickets or after their tickets are confirmed. This system aims to provide passengers with clean, standard-quality food and Rail Neer.
Starting as a Pilot Project
The e-pantry service has been implemented as a pilot project on the Vivek Express (22503/04), one of the longest-distance trains in the country. According to official information, once the project is successful, it will be rolled out on a wider scale. Passengers holding confirmed, RAC, or partially confirmed tickets can avail of this service.
How to Book Online
Passengers can select the e-pantry option during the ticket booking process on the IRCTC official website (www.irctc.co.in). Food can also be ordered from the ‘Booked Ticket History’ section. Once the order is confirmed, authorized pantry car staff will deliver the meal directly to their seats during the journey. This process is completely digital and transparent, reducing the possibility of irregularities in payment and delivery.
What benefits will passengers receive?
This service will provide passengers with the convenience of receiving food on time and at a reasonable price. Supply from authorized vendors will enable better monitoring of quality and hygiene. It will also curb the problem of overcharging and unauthorized vendors. A digital system will increase transparency and accountability.
Future Plans
The Railways aims to expand this service to more trains in a phased manner. If positive results are achieved in the initial trains, this facility could be available on most long-distance trains across the country in the future. This will make passenger travel more convenient and reliable.