Taking a step forward towards the promotion of e-catering, the Railway Board has launched a WhatsApp number for passengers to book their favorite meals. With this, railway passengers will soon be able to book food during train journeys on IRCTC’s WhatsApp number 870001323.
Not only this, railway passengers will also be able to register complaints and suggestions related to food on WhatsApp numbers equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology. So that railway catering service can be improved.
A senior Railway Board official pointed out that the IRCTC is already providing food on some routes through WhatsApp numbers. WhatsApp interaction for e-catering services will be available for select trains. Based on the feedback and suggestions of the passengers, the Railways will introduce the WhatsApp number on other trains as well.
He said that the IRCTC has started e-catering services through a specially developed website and its e-catering app Food on Track. This service is being started in two phases. The first phase has been implemented. Under this, people booking e-tickets are being sent a message from a WhatsApp number, in which a web link is being provided to opt for e-catering services.
After this, they book food from the restaurant of their choice available at the stations falling in the said railway route. For this, they do not need to download the app on their mobile phones and can book meals directly through the above website of IRCTC.
In the second phase, information about food is given on WhatsApp. Under this, WhatsApp Number provides a two-way communication platform powered by artificial intelligence to the passenger, where all queries related to e-catering services are answered. At present, about 50,000 meals are being served to passengers through e-catering services of the IRCTC website and app, the official said. However, there is a daily demand for more than 13 lakh meals in Indian Railways.