In a major move to enhance passenger convenience, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Mini-Ratna PSU of Indian Railways, has launched a new service called ‘E-Pantry’ for Mail and Express trains. Previously limited to premium trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi, the facility will now benefit a wider segment of rail travelers, particularly those who have long complained of poor food quality and overpricing.
The service was inaugurated aboard the country’s longest-running train – Vivek Express (22503/04). Over the next 60 days, the initiative will be extended to 25 more trains, with plans for further expansion based on its success.
What Is the ‘E-Pantry’ Service?
The e-pantry is a digital meal booking system that allows passengers to pre-order food online during or after ticket booking. It will only be available on trains equipped with a pantry car. The service is accessible to passengers with Confirmed, RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation), or Partially Confirmed tickets.
How It Works
- Passengers can book meals online through the IRCTC website or app by selecting the e-pantry option from their Booked Ticket History.
- Upon successful booking, a Meal Verification Code (MVC) will be sent via SMS or email.
- On the day of the journey, passengers can present the MVC to receive food directly at their seat.
Key Features of IRCTC E-Pantry Service
- Digital Payment: Online transactions eliminate the need for cash and ensure transparency.
- Fixed Prices: Food items are available at a standard, pre-set rate—no room for overcharging.
- Authorized Vendors: Only IRCTC-licensed vendors are allowed to deliver food.
- Secure Delivery: The MVC ensures food reaches the right passenger.
- Refund Assurance: If the food isn’t delivered, a refund is processed automatically, and passengers are notified via SMS, email, or WhatsApp.
- Full Monitoring: All orders will be digitally monitored, ensuring quality control and tax compliance.
Passenger-Centric Move
This service is expected to be particularly beneficial for passengers who have limited access to hygienic meals during long journeys or are hesitant to trust unregulated food vendors. It also aligns with Indian Railways’ larger push towards digitization and service modernization.
IRCTC’s Vision Forward
If the e-pantry initiative proves successful in its initial phase, IRCTC plans to roll it out across all mail and express trains, significantly enhancing the overall passenger experience.
About IRCTC
IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd.) is a public limited company and a subsidiary of Indian Railways. It was incorporated on September 27, 1999, as part of a move to professionalize and upgrade the catering and tourism services of Indian Railways.
IRCTC is responsible for managing the catering, hospitality, and tourism aspects of Indian Railways. IRCTC provides online railway ticketing, catering services, packaged drinking water, and various tourism-related services.
