Food Order Online in Train Via Whatsapp

Indian Railways, through its PSU (Public Sector Unit) IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd.), has now made it possible to order food online via WhatsApp.

Passengers can dial +91-8750001323 to interact with the AI-enabled power chatbot and have their meal requests fulfilled. The service is currently only available on certain trains but is likely to expand based on customer feedback. IRCTC has also created a website (www.catering.irctc.co.in) and an app (Food on Track) for the same purpose.

As part of its aim to make its e-catering services more customer-centric, Indian Railways has just established a WhatsApp communication for its passengers to get food via e-catering services. The designated Business WhatsApp number is +91-8750001323.

The two-stage setup of the e-catering services via WhatsApp was planned. In the first stage, the Business WhatsApp number will send a message to those passengers who have booked an e-ticket, offering them the option to utilize the e-catering services by clicking the link www.ecatering.irctc.co.in. This option will enable customers to order meals from chosen restaurants at stations along their route without having to download the app.

The upcoming step for e-catering services will feature WhatsApp number as an interactive two-way platform, where an AI-powered chatbot will manage all questions regarding the services and book meals for passengers. Initially, WhatsApp has been initiated for the e-catering services on certain trains, and depending on the feedback and ideas of the customers, the Indian Railways will make the service available on other trains too.

Currently, IRCTC’s e-catering services, which is accessible through the website and app, provide roughly 50000 meals to customers per day.