Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has issued a stern warning to passengers, urging them to steer clear of unauthorized e-catering websites and apps to avoid risks like food poisoning, data theft, and financial fraud.
Understanding the Official Warning
IRCTC has launched
an enforcement drive against a growing number of unauthorized platforms that offer food delivery services to train passengers. These unofficial vendors often misuse the IRCTC brand to appear legitimate, but they operate outside the regulatory framework. The corporation has moved beyond simple warnings and is now initiating legal action against these non-compliant entities. The primary concern is passenger safety, as these services create a significant risk regarding food quality, hygiene, data privacy, and financial security. IRCTC has explicitly advised passengers to only use its official channels for ordering meals during their journey.
The Dangers of Unauthorized Food Vendors
Ordering from unverified platforms might seem convenient, but it comes with serious risks. Many of these vendors source meals from unlicensed kitchens that do not comply with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations. This can lead to food being prepared in unhygienic conditions by untrained staff, increasing the chances of foodborne illnesses. Beyond health concerns, passengers also face other issues. Sharing your PNR number and personal details on these unverified sites can expose you to data theft, phishing attacks, and financial fraud. Furthermore, these platforms often lack a proper customer support or grievance redressal system, meaning if your order is wrong, delayed, or never arrives, you may have no way to get a refund or resolve the issue.
Your Official and Safe Alternative: The 'Food on Track' App
To combat these risks, IRCTC directs all passengers to use its official e-catering services. The primary platform is the 'Food on Track' mobile app, available for both Android and iOS devices. This app is the official, secure way to order food on trains. It connects passengers with a wide network of FSSAI-certified restaurants and brands, ensuring that the food you receive is hygienic, safe, and of good quality. Using the official app guarantees transparent billing, secure payment processing, and a reliable delivery system where meals are brought directly to your seat.
How to Order Using 'Food on Track'
Using the official app is straightforward. First, download the 'IRCTC eCatering Food on Track' app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Once installed, you will need to enter your 10-digit PNR number. The app will then show you a list of available restaurants and their menus for the stations along your route. You can browse through a wide variety of cuisines, including North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and even pizzas and burgers, depending on the location. After selecting your desired dishes, you can proceed to payment. The app offers multiple payment options, including UPI, net banking, credit/debit cards, and in many cases, Cash on Delivery (COD). Your hot meal will be delivered to your seat at the designated station.
Other Official Ways to Order Food
If you prefer not to use the app, IRCTC provides other official channels. You can place an order directly through the official e-catering website, www.ecatering.irctc.co.in. The process is similar to the app, requiring your PNR number to view options and place an order. For those who are less tech-savvy or without internet access, IRCTC also operates a helpline. You can simply call the number 1323 to place your food order. For any issues or to report unauthorized vendors, passengers are encouraged to contact the Railway Protection Force (RPF) helpline at 182.
