IRCTC Rolls Out E-Pantry Service on 25 Long-Distance Trains for Enhanced Passenger Convenience
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has officially launched its innovative e-pantry service across 25 long-distance mail and express trains. This significant rollout primarily involves trains that either originate from or pass through the East Central Railway (ECR) jurisdiction, marking a major step forward in modernizing onboard catering services.
Flexible Meal Booking and Delivery System
According to V K Bhatti, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of IRCTC in New Delhi, the newly introduced system empowers passengers to pre-book meals of their choice well in advance of their journey. These meals are then delivered at selected stations along the route, providing unprecedented flexibility and convenience during long travels. Bhatti emphasized that this initiative is specifically designed to cater to passengers who prefer customized meals over standard onboard catering, all while maintaining affordability.
The e-pantry model allows travelers to select from a wide array of food options available through IRCTC’s authorized vendors. Passengers can opt for delivery at designated stations, ensuring that meals are fresh and served promptly. This facility is expected to significantly boost passenger satisfaction by giving them greater control over their dietary preferences and meal schedules.
Trains Benefiting from the New Service
Several key trains are set to benefit immensely from this new e-pantry service. Notable among them are the Jayanagar-New Delhi Express (12561/12562), Danapur-Secunderabad Express (12791/12792), Barauni-Ahmedabad Express (19483/19484), and Jayanagar-Lokman Tilak Mumbai Express (11061/11062). These routes, which cover extensive distances, are ideal candidates for the enhanced catering solution.
Following positive initial feedback, IRCTC officials have indicated that the e-pantry service may be expanded to include more trains in the near future. This potential expansion underscores the corporation’s commitment to improving the travel experience for millions of passengers across India’s vast railway network.
Seamless Digital Payments and Verification
The service incorporates a fully digital payment system, allowing passengers to make transactions online via various digital methods. This eliminates the need for cash transactions during the journey, streamlining the process and enhancing security. Additionally, all passengers who book the e-pantry service receive a Meal Verification Code (MVC), which facilitates smooth delivery and verification of their orders.
Passengers interested in utilizing the e-pantry service can find detailed information, including booking procedures and available meal options, on the official IRCTC website. This digital approach aligns with broader trends in the transportation sector towards increased automation and customer-centric services.
