IRCTC Flags 14 Unauthorized E-Catering Websites Over Compliance Violations

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has intensified its efforts to safeguard railway passengers by taking action against 14 e-catering websites found operating outside approved regulatory frameworks. The move is part of a broader initiative aimed at ensuring food safety, digital security, and greater transparency across railway catering services.

According to IRCTC, the identified platforms were operating without adhering to mandatory railway catering standards. Legal proceedings have already been initiated against the websites, while authorities continue to monitor online food delivery activities linked to train travel.

Concerns Over Food Safety and Hygiene

Officials stated that investigations revealed several unauthorized operators were sourcing and supplying food from kitchens that failed to meet prescribed hygiene and quality requirements. Reported violations included inadequate sanitation practices, lack of health screening for food handlers, and non-compliance with food safety protocols required under railway catering regulations.

IRCTC emphasized that such lapses could pose serious health risks to passengers and undermine confidence in railway food services.

Passengers Urged to Use Verified Ordering Channels

To avoid potential risks, passengers have been advised to place food orders only through IRCTC’s authorized channels, including its official e-catering portal, the Food on Track mobile application, and approved partner platforms.

The corporation warned that unauthorized websites may expose users to cyber threats such as payment fraud, identity theft, and misuse of personal information. Travelers have been urged to verify the authenticity of any platform before making transactions.

Digital Monitoring and Enforcement Measures Strengthened

As part of the enforcement campaign, IRCTC has deployed advanced monitoring systems designed to identify suspicious online activity, unauthorized vendors, and unusual booking patterns in real time. Authorities believe these measures will help detect violations quickly and prevent illegal operations from expanding within the railway ecosystem.

The organization is also preparing awareness initiatives to educate passengers about safe digital practices and the importance of using verified service providers.

Regulatory Reforms Under Consideration

Industry experts note that unauthorized e-catering services create a dual challenge by jeopardizing both food quality and online transaction security. In response, IRCTC is reportedly evaluating stronger licensing requirements and enhanced regulatory mechanisms to improve accountability among service providers.

Officials said these proposed measures would help create a more reliable and transparent food delivery environment for railway passengers while raising service standards across the sector.

Improved Complaint Resolution System

To strengthen oversight, IRCTC has upgraded its passenger grievance mechanism, enabling quicker complaint registration and faster response times. The enhanced system is expected to assist authorities in identifying unauthorized vendors and taking corrective action more efficiently.

Focus on Passenger Trust and Digital Security

The latest crackdown aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize public services and strengthen digital governance. IRCTC reiterated that maintaining passenger safety, secure online transactions, and high-quality catering services remains central to its mission.

Officials confirmed that surveillance and enforcement activities will continue on a long-term basis, with further technological upgrades and regulatory improvements expected in the coming months. Passengers have also been advised to avoid sharing personal or financial information on unverified websites and applications.

By tightening oversight and promoting the use of authorized platforms, IRCTC aims to create a safer, more transparent, and dependable e-catering ecosystem for millions of railway travelers across India.