The IRCTC e-catering crackdown targets unauthorised websites and apps that sell meals to train passengers, according to a press release distributed through ANI on 12 November. The release says IRCTC has moved beyond warnings and started legal action against non-compliant entities.

For anyone who orders food on a long train journey, this matters. A look-alike site can take your payment details, and the food may come from an outlet with no food licence. The claims below come from the press release, which ANI says it is not responsible for.

Quick answer

  • What: IRCTC has begun an enforcement drive against unauthorised e-catering platforms.
  • Named sites: 13 platforms are listed as unauthorised in the release.
  • Order only through: The official IRCTC e-Catering website, the Food on Track app, 1323 voice booking or authorised partners.
  • Report illegal vendors: RPF helpline 182.

What IRCTC says it is doing

IRCTC says it has started legal action against entities that misuse its brand or do not follow the rules. It cites four risks: food safety and hygiene, data privacy, financial security and consumer protection. It also says unlicensed outlets may not follow FSSAI rules, and that some operators may avoid GST.

The 13 platforms named

The release names these websites as unauthorised: railrestro.com and railrestro.in, railmitra.com, travelkhana.com, trainscafe.com, dibrail.com, railfood.net, travelerfood.com, foodontrack.in, ecatering.app, khanaonline.in, trainway.in, railmeal.com and trainmenu.com. These are IRCTC’s claims. We have not checked each site ourselves.

Where to order train meals safely

The release says passengers should book meals only through the official IRCTC e-Catering website, which works on desktop and mobile. You can also use the Food on Track app on Google Play or the App Store. The 1323 voice booking line is another option. IRCTC also asks you to check its list of authorised partners on the official site or app before you pay.

If you see unauthorised food vendors or illegal food delivery on a train or station, report it to the Railway Protection Force on helpline 182. Keep the train number, coach and time ready when you call.

What this means for your next trip

Before you pay on any food site, check that the address matches the official IRCTC pages. Be careful with sites that ask for card details outside a standard checkout. If something goes wrong with a booking, you can also use the complaint route in our guide to Rail Madad.

FAQ

How do I order food on a train from IRCTC?

Use the official IRCTC e-Catering website, the Food on Track app or the 1323 voice line. Authorised partner platforms listed by IRCTC are also valid. Avoid sites that are not on that list.

Where do I report an illegal food vendor on a train?

Call the Railway Protection Force helpline on 182. Give the train number, coach and a short description of the vendor. The release names this as the reporting route.

Is every third party food app banned?

No. The release talks about unauthorised platforms and says authorised partners are listed on the official IRCTC e-Catering site. Check that list before you order.