Patna: Indian Railways and IRCTC have introduced a new digital initiative that promises to change the way passengers interact with food served on trains. From now on, select food packets will carry QR codes, allowing travellers to instantly access vital information such as the packing time, the name of the base kitchen, and the price of the item. This step aims to improve both the quality and transparency of onboard catering, addressing long-standing complaints from passengers regarding hygiene, overpricing, and overall food standards.
The initiative builds on previous efforts to monitor food quality. Railways had already installed CCTV cameras in base kitchens to ensure cleanliness and safety. The new system takes it a step further by introducing high-frequency cameras and monitoring equipment directly connected to a control room in Delhi. Officials and IRCTC teams can now track real-time operations, ensuring that standards are maintained at every stage from kitchen to passenger tray. The QR code system has been rolled out first on the Patna-Kolkata Vande Bharat Express, with plans to expand to other Vande Bharat trains once the pilot proves successful.
Beyond monitoring, the QR codes also serve as a tool to prevent overcharging. Passengers scanning the code can immediately see the official price of their food, discouraging vendors from charging more than prescribed. This feature is expected to reduce complaints and promote fair practices among caterers. “Our goal is to provide passengers with transparency and a clear view of what they are paying for,” said IRCTC Regional Manager Rajesh Kumar.
The new system has also been trialled at major railway stations under the Danapur division, allowing passengers not only to view food information but also to register complaints directly through the same platform. By combining monitoring, pricing transparency, and faster complaint resolution, Indian Railways and IRCTC aim to improve the overall passenger experience. Officials say that once the pilot succeeds, the QR code system will be expanded to cover more trains and stations across the country, creating a more accountable and passenger-friendly railway network.
