24 September 2023
The Indian Railways has decided to stop the sale of packaged food items in Vande Bharat trains for a period of six months, starting from September 25, 2023. This decision has been taken in response to several complaints from passengers regarding the quality of packaged food items being sold on these trains.
In a circular issued on September 24, the Railway Board stated that the sale of packaged food items, also known as PAD items (bakery products, wafers, confectionery items, cold drinks, etc.), and a la carte items has been causing inconvenience to passengers.
The circular further stated that the hawking of packaged food items in the aisles of Vande Bharat trains has been causing congestion and obstructing the movement of passengers. Additionally, the overstocking of food items in the passage and the frequent opening of the automatic doors have also been inconveniencing passengers.
In view of these complaints, the Railway Board has decided to discontinue the sale of PAD items and a la carte items in Vande Bharat trains on a pilot basis for six months. This decision will be implemented immediately by all concerned parties.
The Railway Board has also directed the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) not to stock a double supply of Rail Neer bottled water for round trips. Instead, bottles will now be stocked for a single trip and replenished.
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These measures have been taken in an effort to improve the hygiene, service, and food availability on Vande Bharat trains. The Railway Board has also stated that it will be closely monitoring the impact of these measures on passenger satisfaction.
It is important to note that the sale of cooked meals on Vande Bharat trains will continue as usual. Passengers can book their meals in advance through the IRCTC website or app.
The decision to stop the sale of packaged food items in Vande Bharat trains has been met with mixed reactions from passengers. Some passengers have welcomed the move, stating that it will improve the hygiene and safety of food served on these trains. Others, however, have expressed concern that the ban on packaged food items will make it difficult for them to get snacks and drinks during their journey.
It remains to be seen what the long-term impact of this decision will be. However, it is clear that the Indian Railways is committed to improving the passenger experience on Vande Bharat trains.
Indian Railways stops sale of packaged foods in Vande Bharat trains for 6 months
The Indian Railways has decided to stop the sale of packaged food items in Vande Bharat trains for a period of six months, starting from September 25, 2023. This decision has been taken in response to several complaints from passengers regarding the quality of packaged food items being sold on these trains.
Passengers have also complained about the congestion and inconvenience caused by the hawking of packaged food items in the aisles of these trains.
In view of these complaints, the Railway Board has decided to discontinue the sale of packaged food items in Vande Bharat trains on a pilot basis for six months. This decision will be implemented immediately by all concerned parties.
The Railway Board has also directed the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) not to stock a double supply of Rail Neer bottled water for round trips. Instead, bottles will now be stocked for a single trip and replenished.
These measures have been taken in an effort to improve the hygiene, service, and food availability on Vande Bharat trains. The Railway Board has also stated that it will be closely monitoring the impact of these measures on passenger satisfaction.
Alternatives to packaged food items on Vande Bharat trains
Passengers can pre-book cooked meals on Vande Bharat trains through the IRCTC website or app. These meals are prepared in hygienic kitchens and served on board the train. Passengers can also carry their own food and drinks on Vande Bharat trains.
How to book cooked meals on Vande Bharat trains in advance
To book cooked meals on Vande Bharat trains in advance, passengers need to visit the IRCTC website or app and enter their travel details. Passengers can then select their preferred meals from a variety of options. Meals can be booked up to 48 hours before the train’s departure.
Reactions of passengers to the railways’ decision
The railways’ decision to stop the sale of packaged foods in Vande Bharat trains has been met with mixed reactions from passengers. Some passengers have welcomed the move, stating that it will improve the hygiene and safety of food served on these trains. Others, however, have expressed concern that the ban on packaged food items will make it difficult for them to get snacks and drinks during their journey.
Long-term impact of the decision
It remains to be seen what long-term consequences this decision will have. However, it is clear that the Indian Railways is committed to improving the passenger experience on these trains.
The ban on packaged food items is likely to lead to a number of changes in the way that food is served on Vande Bharat trains. For example, the railways may start offering a wider variety of cooked meals on board. The railways may also work with IRCTC to improve the quality and efficiency of the meal booking process.
In addition, the railways may also explore other ways to improve the availability of healthy and nutritious food on Vande Bharat trains. For example, the railways could partner with local food businesses to offer regional cuisine on board. The railways could also set up vending machines that sell healthy snacks and drinks.
Overall, the railways’ decision to stop the sale of packaged foods in Vande Bharat trains is a positive step. It is likely to lead to a number of improvements in the way that food is served on these trains. The railways should now work closely with passengers and stakeholders to ensure that the new food service system meets the needs of everyone.