Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a subsidiary of the Railways, has launched a great and convenient service for passengers traveling in mail and express trains - e-pantry service. Through this, now clean, fixed price and timely food will be provided to the passengers on the train seat itself. While earlier online booking facility of food was available only in premium trains, now this facility has been started in mail and express trains as well. This is especially beneficial for those passengers who often complain about overcharging, unauthorized vendors, and poor-quality food during the journey.
What is an e-pantry service?
E-pantry is a digital meal booking facility started by IRCTC which provides food to passengers on their seats in mail/express trains. Passengers with confirmed, RAC or partially confirmed tickets can avail of this service. This service will be applicable in those trains in which pantry car is available.
How to use the service?
While booking the ticket or later, go to the booked ticket history section and select the e-pantry option. After booking, you will receive a Meal Verification Code (MVC) via SMS or email. On the day of travel, show the MVC code and get your food at your seat.
Key features of e-pantry service
Book food online – Pre-book Standard Meal or Rail Neer through the website.
Payment through digital mode, no cash required.
Food will be served at a fixed price, with no overcharging.
Only IRCTC-licensed vendors will deliver food.
MVC code ensures proper identification and that food is delivered to the right passenger.
Digital monitoring of every order and tax compliance.
If food is not delivered, a refund will be given and information will be given via SMS/Email/WhatsApp.
Pilot launch and plans
This service has been started with India's longest-distance train Vivek Express (22503/04). In the coming 60 days, it will be implemented in 25 more trains (100 racks). After its success, it will be started in other mail/express trains across the country.
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