How To Order Food In Train Online
Introduction
The facility to order food in train online has offered passengers variety and convenience. The most crucial step in ordering food online is checking the PNR status. It is essential to understand the process of ordering food online and ensuring it is delivered on time. This article discusses the steps involved in ordering food and the importance of the PNR status check.
Understanding the Process
IRCTC eCatering allows passengers to order food in train online. You must enter your PNR number, view the food options and available restaurants on your journey, and place an order. You can also use your PNR number to explore food at a station.
Benefits of using online platforms for food orders during train journeys
- Convenience
It is effortless to order food online while on the train. Simply enter your PNR number and get your preferred meal aboard the train.
- Variety of options
Passengers can order a range of meals via the app and have them delivered to their destination on the train.
- Quality assurance
Health concerns have risen in the post-pandemic world. IRCTC ensures that the food delivered to passengers meets the FSSAI’s required quality checks and is safe for consumption.
- Easy refund policy
If you still need to get your order or the food quality needs to be better, you can immediately request a full refund. Refunds are offered to travellers on the train concessionaires’ websites.
Steps to Order Food in Train Online
A passenger carrying a valid ticket can easily order food in train online by following a few simple steps:
Step 1: PNR Status Check
PNR stands for Passenger Name Record and is a unique 10-digit numeric code. It contains all the essential information for booking and managing a passenger’s train journey. The PNR status check of a passenger is vital for the following reasons:
- Planning your journey
- Confirming your travel plans
- Group travel coordination
- Refunds and cancellation
- Receiving travel updates
- Avoiding penalties
Various methods are in place for the PNR status check. These are:
PNR Status Check using the App
Railofy’s mobile App helps passengers monitor their PNR status. The app shows information about the rain’s platform number, reservation number, and coach.
PNR Status Check using Whatsapp
Passengers can send their PNR number to ‘9881193322’ on WhatsApp to receive updates regarding their train.
IRCTC PNR Status Check via SMS
Passengers can SMS to ‘5676747’ or text ‘139’ for updates regarding their PNR status. Each message sent costs Rs 3.
Step 2: Selecting the Restaurant
The IRCTC eCatering app will show you a list of food vendors and restaurants that can deliver to your train’s scheduled stops.
You can select the vendor or restaurant and browse their menu to choose a dish.
Step 3: Providing Delivery Details
After selecting the items you wish to order, you must provide your delivery details, including your PNR number, coach, platform number, and seat details.
Step 4: Placing the Order
The next step is making the payment. The app accepts multiple payment options, such as mobile wallets, debit/credit cards, and net banking. Passengers can also opt for the cash-on-delivery option and pay after they receive the food.
Step 5: Order Confirmation and Tracking
Once the order is placed, customers receive a confirmation message with the order details and an estimated delivery time. The passenger can track the order status on the App. Passengers also receive updates via mail and SMS.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Here are some tips to order food in train online to make your ordering experience smooth and comfortable:
Order in Advance
To ensure that your food is delivered on time, it is recommended that you place an order one hour before your estimated time of arrival at the station. This ensures that you get your order when you arrive at the station and that you have a broader variety to choose from.
Choose the Right Platform
When deciding how to order food in train online, choosing from IRCTC eCatering platforms approved by the FSSAI is beneficial. This ensures your meals are safe and hygienic and meet safety food standards.
Look for Deals and Discounts
Sign up for offers through email, website, or mobile App to get special discounts when ordering food. These discounts help passengers stay within budget while improving their dining experience.
Pay Online
When ordering food, use online modes of payment like credit/debit cards, UPI, net banking, etc. This allows you to experience a secure transaction and removes the need to handle cash while travelling.
Conclusion
By offering passengers the option to order food in train online, the Indian Railways has offered travellers a diverse range of mouthwatering food options and great convenience. It is crucial to complete the PNR status check before placing an order. This ensures a seamless and hassle-free dining journey. This modern approach towards dining while travelling improves the convenience for the passengers and guarantees a high quality of service.
FAQs
How to order food in train online?
Passengers can use platforms like IRCTC or Railofy to order food in train online. They must enter their PNR number and train details, select their meal, and place the order. The food will be delivered to them on the train.
How to know if the order is confirmed?
If you order food in train online, both Railofy and IRCTC send order confirmation details by email, WhatsApp, or SMS. They also allow passengers to track their orders using real-time data.
What is a PNR status check?
A PNR is a 10-digit unique number associated with a train ticket reservation. A PNR status check can be carried out on websites like IRCTC or Railofy. It helps to track the current chances of confirmation for your PNR number.
What information does the PNR status provide?
The PNR status check provides the following information to the passenger:
- Estimated time of arrival
- Train ticket status – CNF, WL or RAC
- Boarding time
- Coach number
- Seating class
- Seat number
How can I check the PNR status by SMS?
Below are the steps to follow to check your PNR status via SMS:
- Open the SMS app on your mobile phone.
- Type in the 10-digit PNR without the hyphen.
- You can send the PNR to ‘139’ or SMS to 5676747.
- You will receive your PNR status via SMS using the same mobile number.
