In a strategic initiative, Indian Railways is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul of its catering policy to enhance the efficiency of food availability on trains across the national network. Under these transformative changes, base kitchens will be established for clusters of trains, with the responsibility of managing catering services entrusted to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Contracts will now be awarded for a cluster of trains, with a stipulation that at least two clusters exist in one route or direction.
The recent commercial circular outlines that to ensure an optimal volume and economies of scale, contracts will be awarded for a cluster of trains, and base kitchens will be mapped accordingly, departing from the previous individual train-centric approach. Clusters will be formed based on trains operating on specific routes, with a maximum of 10 pairs of trains allowed in any one cluster. Additionally, the circular specifies that if a cluster comprises up to 5 pairs of trains, it should include one Premium Prepaid train alongside Mail/Express trains. In cases where the cluster involves 6 to 10 pairs of trains, a maximum of two premium prepaid trains can be included.
The circular emphasizes the importance of specifying the location of base kitchens in advance, and IRCTC is tasked with ensuring that meals are not sourced from external providers. The determination of base kitchen locations will consider transit time and delivery to stations to maintain food quality.
Contracts for the supply of food on trains will now have a duration of five years, with the possibility of a two-year extension. The circular underscores the need for CCTV monitoring of base kitchens and outlines penalties for non-compliance, including contract termination as defined by the Railways Board. This revamped catering policy is poised to usher in a more streamlined and efficient food service system on Indian Railways.
