The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced the E-Pantry service on mail and express trains.
This initiative aims to provide passengers with the convenience of pre-booking hygienic meals during their journey, addressing long-standing issues of overcharging and inconsistent food quality. The E-Pantry service, currently being piloted on the Vivek Express, allows passengers to select and pre-order meals at the time of booking their tickets. This system mirrors the meal selection process already in place for premium trains, offering a streamlined and reliable dining option for all passengers. The service is set to expand to approximately 20 to 25 trains in the coming months, based on its success. To utilise the E-Pantry service, passengers can visit the IRCTC website and select the meal option during the ticket booking process. Upon confirmation, they receive a Meal Verification Code (MVC) via SMS or email. On the day of travel, passengers present this code to the pantry car staff, who will deliver the pre-ordered meal directly to their seat.
One of the key benefits of the E-Pantry service is the elimination of cash transactions, as payments are made online during the booking process. This not only reduces the risk of overcharging but also ensures that meal prices are fixed and transparent. Only IRCTC-authorised vendors are permitted to deliver the pre-booked meals, ensuring consistent quality and hygiene standards. The introduction of the E-Pantry service is a response to passenger complaints regarding the quality and cost of meals on mail and express trains. By offering a digital solution, IRCTC aims to provide a more organised and satisfying dining experience, contributing to the overall comfort and convenience of train travel.
As the E-Pantry service expands across the railway network, it is expected to set a new standard for train dining, aligning with broader efforts to modernise and improve passenger services. This initiative underscores IRCTC’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the travel experience, ensuring that passengers enjoy not only a comfortable journey but also quality meals that meet their expectations. In conclusion, the E-Pantry service represents a significant step forward in the evolution of train travel in India. By addressing common concerns related to meal quality and pricing, IRCTC is paving the way for a more enjoyable and hassle-free dining experience for all train passengers.
Also Read :Odisha Rail Project Nears Completion with Final Tunnel Breakthrough
