The Railways carried out 4896 surprise checks of catering services across the country in 2003-2004. Action was taken against 2481 vending units. In 2415 cases, however, no irregularities were noticed. In 2002-2003, surprise inspections were carried out in 5536 catering units and action taken against 2239 units. In 2001-2002, surprise checks were made in 5932 catering units and action taken against 2317.
In addition, the Railways took action against 422 cases of public complaints received in 2003-2004. The remaining complaints were unsubstantiated. In 2002-2003, action was taken in 578 complaints out of 1070 public complaints received. In 2001-2002, action was taken in 663 cases out of 1113 public complaints.
The Railways have taken various measures for improving catering services. These include introduction of three-piece casserole packed meal in place of thali meals, introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials, supply of curd in kulhars, ensuring quality of packaged drinking water, review of menu and services of Rajdhani, Shatabdi and other Mail, Express and Superfast trains.
Besides, regular inspections and surprise checks are carried out at all levels to ensure quality in catering services. Special drives are organized from time to time. Complaints received are investigated and strict action taken against the defaulters.
Added to these, Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC), has been set up to upgrade, professionalise and manager catering and hospitality services at stations and on trains.
(Release ID :3802)