In a momentous step toward enhancing onboard food quality, Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). It is pilot testing foreign food service providers on Vande Bharat Express trains. It will be the first time foreign food service providers will assist Indian trains in providing legitimate catering service. IRCTC Brings Foreign Caterers on Vande Bharat Trains.
There have been frequent passenger complaints regarding food quality, basis, and introversion on Indian Railways. Currently, more than 90 per cent of Catering Contracts are mandated to one sing domestic company. Which raises concerns of monopoly and lack of service commitment.
To address these experiences, Railway Board recommended to invite global competition to align catering standards of Indian Railways to international levels. The initiative is aiming to modernise food options, while still being affordable for all passengers.
Pilot Project Details
The project started on the nagpur–Secunderabad Vande Express route. Where the French catering company ELIOR was designated to provide tea and dinner service.
In addition, ten foreign companies from the United States, Europe, and Asia are now under consideration for further rollouts on more Vande Bharat routes.
Higher quality food: Foreign fleet caterers have significant experience in delivering food with a focus on hygiene, nutrition, and ethnic cuisine options.
Wider variety of food: Meals will come from a multi-cuisine menu, which is centralized, so passengers will be able to enjoy multi-cuisine meals that account for their dietary options.
Cost Neutrality: The new model of providing meals showcases modernization of the food service without higher ticket prices.
Improved Passenger Experience: More meals and better meals meant an improved, better and comfortable journey.
Future Expansion Plan:
Should the model prove successful, it can be expanded to all 136 Vande Bharat trains running across India, creating a new norm of service on board.
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Bringing in foreign caterers to the Vande Bharat Express trains by IRCTC is a bold move. On the part of the Indian Railways and a step in the right direction in terms of passenger experience. The use of foreign caterers will facilitate better food and set a new emotional experience behind the whole experience of railway food in India.
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