(a) whether Western Railway /Railway Board has made a policy to discourage cooking of tea/eatables at Tea-Stalls on railway stations/platforms;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the policy is likely to affect the public amenities adversely regarding providing fresh and good quality eatables to the passengers; and
(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS ( SHRI R. VELU )
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. Railways/Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) Ltd. are gradually shifting to the concept of serving pre-cooked food items packed in bio-degradable and eco-friendly containers, in which food could be warmed before serving. This is being done to discourage cooking/deep frying on the platforms of railway stations. Cooking is being confined to centralised kitchens and food is being dispensed through heating equipment such as bain-maries, infrared/microwave ovens, etc. with a view to keep environmental pollution under control, surroundings clean and ensure safety of railway passengers.
(c) No, Sir.
(d) Does not arise