Indian Railways mandates display of food menus with rates on trains; passengers will receive SMS alerts on food prices

For better food quality and hygiene, food is cooked in special base kitchens that have modern facilities. CCTV cameras are installed in these kitchens to monitor food preparation live

Indian Railways has taken a big step in enhancing passenger experience by making the exhibition of food menus along with

 prices compulsory in trains. Through this, the passengers will have an idea about food items and their prices even before they opt to buy something. Passengers

 will also get SMS notifications on the prices of food, ensuring transparency and assisting them in taking an informed decision.

 This action is intended to avoid any ambiguity or overpayment while enhancing the journey experience

Menus of all food items along with rates are available on IRCTC’s website for passenger information. Printed menu cards are provided by waiters upon request,” Vaishnaw stated. Additionally, rate lists are displayed in pantry cars, and passengers receive SMS alerts with links to menus and tariffs for enhanced transparency.

Food quality and hygiene 

To improve food quality and hygiene, meals are prepared in designated base kitchens equipped with modern facilities. CCTV cameras have been installed in these kitchens to oversee food preparation in real-time. The Railways has mandated the use of branded raw materials, including cooking oil, atta, rice, pulses, masala, paneer, and dairy products, to maintain food safety standards. Food safety supervisors have been deployed at base kitchens to monitor cleanliness and handling practices, while onboard IRCTC supervisors oversee catering services in trains.

Safety initiatives

QR codes on food packets now display key details such as the kitchen name and packaging date, allowing passengers to verify their meals. Regular deep cleaning and pest control are conducted in base kitchens and pantry cars. All catering units are required to have FSSAI certification to ensure compliance with food safety standards. 

Third-Party Audits 

Third-party audits are conducted to assess hygiene and food quality in pantry cars and base kitchens. Additionally, the Railways conducts customer satisfaction surveys to gather feedback from passengers about the food served on trains. “Third-party audit is done to examine hygiene and quality of food in pantry cars and base kitchens. Customer satisfaction surveys are also conducted,” Vaishnaw added.