Food catering on trains likely to be suspended; Refund possible for passengers

NEW DELHI: The provision of cooked food to train passengers during travel is likely to be disrupted. The war situation in the Middle East and the subsequent LPG shortage might force IRTC to temporarily suspend food service in trains, according to national media reports. The railways department might consider temporarily suspending cooked food services on trains and will initiate proceedings to refund money to passengers who have pre-booked meals while reserving tickets.

Railway officials say that the IRCTC base kitchens have been affected by the cooking gas crisis. Pre-prepared meals are usually delivered in pantry cars and distributed. The heating process is also carried out inside them during emergencies. The disruption in LPG supply has reportedly affected the preparation and distribution of food for long-distance trains.

According to railway officials, IRCTC serves food to 17 lakh people daily across the country through its network of base kitchens and catering facilities. Reports suggest that the situation will worsen in the coming days if the crisis is not resolved. The Railway Board has already been informed of some measures, including the possibility of suspending catering services if the shortage continues.