Indian Railways plans to scale up its new program to provide affordable meals for passengers traveling in General Class Coaches, that is passengers who travel in unreserved coaches. The initiative is in response to the anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the summer season.
“The Indian Railways recognizes the challenges faced by those traveling in unreserved compartments (General Class Coaches), who may not always have access to convenient and budget-friendly meal options,” a senior official involved in the program’s implementation told ET.These meals and water will be available at counters situated near general second class coaches on platforms.
“Passengers can buy their refreshments directly from these counters, eliminating the need to search for vendors or venture outside the station,” he explained.
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The service was initially tested at around 51 stations during the calendar year 2023. Due to its success, the program is now being expanded, with counters currently operating at over 100 additional stations, bringing the total number of counters to approximately 150. The official added that the Indian Railways’ initiative is slated for further growth, encompassing even more stations in the near future.
In addition to the affordable meal program, the national transporter is also increasing the number of trains to cater to the surge in passengers during the summer season. A total of 9111 trips will be available to ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers.
“This marks a substantial rise compared to the summer of 2023, where a total of 6369 trips were offered. This translates to an increase of 2742 trips, demonstrating Indian Railways’ commitment to meeting passenger demands effectively,” an official statement said.
“The Indian Railways recognizes the challenges faced by those traveling in unreserved compartments (General Class Coaches), who may not always have access to convenient and budget-friendly meal options,” a senior official involved in the program’s implementation told ET.These meals and water will be available at counters situated near general second class coaches on platforms.
“Passengers can buy their refreshments directly from these counters, eliminating the need to search for vendors or venture outside the station,” he explained.
Also Read | Indian Railways says Vande Bharat Express very popular; over 2 crore people travelled by new trains since 2019 launch
The service was initially tested at around 51 stations during the calendar year 2023. Due to its success, the program is now being expanded, with counters currently operating at over 100 additional stations, bringing the total number of counters to approximately 150. The official added that the Indian Railways’ initiative is slated for further growth, encompassing even more stations in the near future.
In addition to the affordable meal program, the national transporter is also increasing the number of trains to cater to the surge in passengers during the summer season. A total of 9111 trips will be available to ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers.
“This marks a substantial rise compared to the summer of 2023, where a total of 6369 trips were offered. This translates to an increase of 2742 trips, demonstrating Indian Railways’ commitment to meeting passenger demands effectively,” an official statement said.
