Indian Railways crack down on unauthorised vendors:Roll out QR IDs, traceable meals with tighter food safety checks

Indian Railways have rolled out QR code-enabled identity cards and digitally traceable food packaging to eliminate unauthorised vending and ensure verified catering services onboard trains. Unauthorised hawking in passenger areas is prohibited and punishable under Section 144 of the Railways Act, 1989. Regular inspections by designated officials and the Railway Protection Force (RPF), along with periodic special drives by railway authorities and IRCTC, are conducted to curb such activities. QR Code system to verify staff, track food origin To establish the identity of authorised catering personnel, QR code-enabled ID cards have been made mandatory for vendors, helpers and onboard staff. These codes provide instant verification, displaying key details such as name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness and police verification status. In addition, QR codes on food packets now allow passengers to check the source kitchen and date of preparation, improving transparency and traceability in onboard catering. Focus on hygiene through modern kitchens, monitoring Railways have introduced multiple measures to enhance food quality, hygiene and safety: Regular deep cleaning and pest control are carried out in both base kitchens and pantry cars to maintain hygiene standards. Mandatory FSSAI certification, third-party audits in place Compliance with food safety norms has been strengthened through mandatory certification by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India for all catering units. Additional safeguards include: Regular training programmes conducted by IRCTC focus on improving service quality, including communication skills, courteous behaviour, grooming and hygiene standards among catering staff.