Sick of train food? At last, there is a glimmer of an option

The Indian Railways, finally moved into action by the ever-growing complaints about the miserable catering available to long-distance train passengers, has announced a scheme on select trains where one can order food from one's preferred restaurant at stations.

The SMS-based service will be launched on 25 September on a pilot basis.

But, unfortunately, according to knowledgeable train travellers, the new service will also be run by the deeply corrupt Indian Railways Catering & Tourism Corp, which is the very party responsible for the inedible food served on IR trains.

''Until the government dismantles the IRCTC monopoly in railway services, there is little hope of major improvement,'' said one upper-class passenger who travels long distances frequently but does not like to fly.

Meanwhile, IRCTC, which is coordinating the e-catering service, is finalising a new designated number to be used for SMS service for ordering food on a train.

The Railways is also finalising a plan to start an online ordering system where a passenger can pre-book his meals. Arrangements have been made with reputed food chains for this service.

Recently, the Railways started providing ready-to-eat packaged food in certain trains on a trial basis, offering a choice to passengers. According to IRCTC, the service has got good response and it is now seeking a wider delivery chain.