New Delhi: Vande Bharat Express is one of the most sought-after trains in the country due to the modern and updated amenities it provides to the passengers. Operated by Indian Railways, it is a medium to long-distance semi-high speed superfast express service. It was part of the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and entered commercial service on February 15, 2019, and over the years, the popularity of the train has only increased. Due to high-tech coaches, washrooms, availability of meals and lesser travel time, the train has become a hit among the passengers. The trains connects all the major and semi-major cities in India.

The option of food in Vande Bharat trains

At the time of booking tickets for Vande Bharat Express, passengers can select any food options to avail of meals onboard. However, as per the Railway Board, those traveling by Vande Bharat can now purchase food on the train in case they have not selected the food earlier.

In a circular, the Railway Boards has stated that the IRCTC can resume selling and serving food items in Vande Bharat trains to provide catering facilities to passengers who did not opt for food at the time of booking the tickets. The circular also said that for passengers who have booked the tickets without selecting the food option, they can get cooked meal along with customised Ready to Eat meal option.

According to reports, many passengers have complained that even when they are ready to pay, the staff of IRCTC did not offer them food since they had not opted for it while booking ticket. As per the passengers, when they do not select the pre-paid food option, the IRCTC staff refuse to offer them food even when the passengers are ready to pay for it. In the circular, the Board urged IRCTC to take all the required steps to provide the passengers hygienic and good food. Moreover, to not cause problems for passengers, IRCTC should sell the food via trolleys within the stipulated timeframe and no vending will be allowed after 9 pm or dinner service, whichever is earlier.