Railway Minister Mandates Display of Menu and Rate Lists on Trains to Enhance Transparency
In a significant move to improve transparency and passenger satisfaction, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the display of menus and rate lists for food items served on trains is now mandatory. The announcement was made in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
Passengers can now access detailed menus and pricing information on the IRCTC website. Additionally, printed menu cards are available with waiters and can be presented to passengers upon request. The rate lists are also prominently displayed in pantry cars. To further streamline communication, passengers will receive SMS notifications with links to the menu and tariff details.
Vaishnaw emphasized the steps taken to ensure hygiene, cleanliness, and quality of food served on trains. These measures include sourcing meals from designated base kitchens, establishing modern kitchens at key locations, and installing CCTV cameras to monitor food preparation. Popular and branded raw materials, such as cooking oil, atta, rice, and dairy products, are being used to maintain quality standards.
To bolster food safety, food safety supervisors have been deployed at base kitchens, and on-board IRCTC supervisors are now present in trains. QR codes on food packets provide details like the kitchen name and packaging date, ensuring traceability. Regular deep cleaning, pest control, and mandatory FSSAI certifications for catering units are also part of the new protocols.
Third-party audits and customer satisfaction surveys are being conducted to ensure compliance and address passenger concerns. These initiatives aim to elevate the dining experience for train travelers across the country.
