IRCTC Food Options: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian Railways has changed their meal policy. Passengers can now decide if they want meals while booking their tickets. For three premium trains—Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, and Vande Bharat Express—food charges are included in the ticket price. However, passengers still have the option to buy food later during their journey, even if they initially declined the meals.
When passengers choose meals, the catering fee is added to the ticket price. If they decline, this charge is simply removed from the total. A common question is whether passengers get a complimentary one-litre Rail Neer water bottle on board, especially if they select the ‘No Meals’ option. According to an IRCTC official, all passengers receive the free water bottle, regardless of their meal choice.
There was also some confusion recently. Many travelers thought meals were now mandatory on premium trains. Several users reported seeing an enforced meal selection while booking. However, an official clarified that the ‘No Food’ option still exists. It just has a slightly different placement on the booking page.
It’s interesting to note that the trend of offering meal choices and complimentary services in train travel is not unique to India. In other countries, railways have also evolved their dining services to meet passenger preferences. For instance, a survey by the National Rail Passenger Survey in the UK showed that about 65% of rail users prioritize food quality when traveling. This reflects a growing expectation for better service from train operators.
In summary, whether you choose to eat on the train or not, you can still enjoy your journey without missing out on essential services like free water. These changes are a response to evolving passenger needs, marking a new era in train travel.
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