Indian Railways has introduced airline-style meals on its premium trains operating in Kerala, including the Vande Bharat Express. This initiative aims to provide passengers with high-quality, hygienic, and regionally tailored dining options, addressing previous concerns over food quality and variety.
To implement this upgrade, Indian Railways has partnered with three renowned catering services: Samrudhi, operated by the Kochi-based Kudumbasree unit; Casino Air Caterers and Flight Services (CAFS), known for its airline catering expertise; and UDS, based in Thiruvananthapuram, recognized for its quality food services. These partnerships were established following a thorough evaluation by Railway Board officials, who visited various catering services and flight kitchens in Kerala to ensure the selection of providers that align with the quality expected on premium trains like the Vande Bharat Express. This move comes in response to passenger complaints about the subpar quality of meals previously offered onboard. Notably, there were concerns regarding Brindavan Products, the former catering provider, which had been criticized for the poor quality of food served to passengers. In light of these issues, the Railway Board has taken steps to improve the vendor selection process, ensuring that only high-quality providers are now serving meals on Kerala’s top trains.
Passengers now have the flexibility to customize their meals when booking tickets for the Vande Bharat trains. For instance, on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kasaragod Vande Bharat Express, a ticket with breakfast pre-booked costs ₹800, while a ticket without breakfast is available for ₹680. Similarly, on the Thiruvananthapuram-Mangaluru route, a ticket that includes dinner costs ₹1,190, whereas a ticket without dinner is priced at ₹990. These pricing options allow passengers to select a “no-food” option if desired, providing greater flexibility in their travel plans. To address any issues that may arise regarding food quality, passengers can easily lodge complaints through several channels. Indian Railways has introduced the Rail Madad app, which offers a convenient way for passengers to report concerns. Additionally, they can contact the helpline at 139 or share their feedback on social media platforms. Railways also encourages passengers to post photos of their meals if they are dissatisfied, further ensuring transparency and accountability. This feedback system aims to quickly address any food-related issues, making it easier for travelers to voice concerns and receive prompt resolutions.
The introduction of flight-style meals on Kerala trains, especially the Vande Bharat Express, marks a significant step in improving the overall travel experience. By collaborating with experienced catering companies that specialize in providing high-quality meals, Indian Railways is offering a more sophisticated dining experience, reminiscent of what passengers would expect on an airplane. The addition of these services is expected to set a new standard for food served on trains in India, particularly for premium routes like Vande Bharat. This initiative is not just about improving the food served on the trains but also reflects a larger commitment to enhancing overall Indian Railways catering services. With the growing demand for higher-quality food in public transport, especially on high-end services like Vande Bharat, the Railway Board is working to ensure that every aspect of the passenger journey meets expectations. With better meals, more convenient complaint channels, and a focus on transparency, passengers can now look forward to an improved travel experience that blends comfort, quality, and convenience. The emphasis on Indian Railways catering serves as an important part of this ongoing transformation.
Also Read :Hyderabad to Tirupati Vande Bharat Express Faces Technical Glitch in Nellore
