Indian Railways start new service; train passengers can order food on WhatsApp

The Indian Railways’ PSU, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) has started WhatsApp communication for the railway passengers to order food through its e-catering services.

Earlier, IRCTC had started e-catering services through a specially developed website www.catering.irctc.co.in as well its e-catering app 'Food on Track.'

As per a PIB report, two stages of implementation of e-catering services through WhatsApp communication have been planned. In the first phase, a Business WhatsApp number will be sending a message to the customer booking e-ticket for opting e-catering services through clicking the link www.ecatering.irctc.co.in.

“With this option, the customers will be able to book meals of their choice from the restaurants of their choice available at stations en route directly through the e-catering website of IRCTC without even having to download the App,” the PIB report said.

As per plans, the WhatsApp number will be enabled to become an interactive two way communication platform for the customer wherein an AI power chatbot will handle all queries of e-catering services for the passengers and will also book meals for them in the next stage.

WhatsApp communication has been implemented for e-catering services on selected trains and passengers and based on customer feedback and suggestions, Railways will enable the same on other trains too.