Rights and Lefts: Topic 1- IRCTC Food Facts

For millions of Indians, train journeys are more than just travel- it's a cultural experience. But one aspect that continues to leave passengers disappointed is the quality and pricing of food served by IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation). Despite a standardized rate list, many travellers report being overcharged for meals that are often subpar in taste, hygiene and quantity.

IRCTC has published a detailed food rate list that includes prices for beverages, snacks and meals. Here is a link to the official IRCTC menu rates.

Website - IRCTC Menu Price List

Below are some files and screenshots from the above link for Mail/Express/Humsafar Menu:

MenuandTariffforA-la-Carteitems.pdf

Download PDF • 3.14MB

Helpline Contact number

The reality on the Rails

Despite the published rates, passengers frequently encounter:

• Overcharging: Vendors often demand Rs 100-150 for meals listed at Rs 80-110.

  • In one of my recent travels, I was charged Rs 40 for a Poha which was actually mentioned to be Rs 30 in the website mentioned above. On complaining on the Helpline number mentioned above, the vendor came back and returned Rs 10. I did not close the ticket despite request from vendor, to ensure that this is not repeated.

  • In the same trip, I ordered a Veg Biryani. This time, the charge was correct, Rs 80 (as in the screenshot above), but many of the items were not given to me, like curd, tissue paper and sanitizer. On asking for the same, and showing it in the website to him, he went back and brought all the items.

• Missing Items: Meals are served without accompaniments like curd, tissue, sanitizer, which are part of the package (refer website or image above).

  • In the same trip, I ordered a Veg Biryani. This time, the charge was correct, Rs 80 (as in the screenshot above), but many of the items were not given to me, like curd, tissue paper and sanitizer. On asking for the same, and showing it in the website to him, he went back and brought all the items.

What can you Do?

If you have been overcharged, or served food with any missing accompaniments, here's how to raise your voice:

• Call IRCTC helpline: +91 9910492197, +91 1141100150.

• Email: crmco@irctc.com

• Tweet: @IRCTCofficial

Final Thoughts:

The IRCTC food experience needs a serious overhaul. While the rate list looks fair on paper, the gap between policy and practice is wide. Until stricter enforcement and vendor accountability are ensured, passengers will continue to pay more for less.

Have you had a similar experience on your train journey? Let's keep the conversation going- because better food on trains isn't a luxury, it's a basic expectation.