IRCTC Cracks Down on Unauthorized E-Catering Operators, Initiates Legal Action Against Multiple Websites

In a decisive move to safeguard railway passengers from health, financial and cyber security risks, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched a large-scale coordinated drive against unauthorized e-catering operators functioning across the Indian Railways network. The initiative aims to permanently dismantle entities that illegally offer food delivery services to train passengers while misusing IRCTC’s brand and operating outside regulatory norms.

According to IRCTC, unauthorized e-catering platforms pose serious threats to passenger safety and data privacy. Many of these operators source meals from unregulated eateries that do not comply with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines. Concerns include food preparation in unhygienic conditions and the absence of mandatory health screenings for kitchen staff and delivery personnel, potentially endangering passenger health.

The corporation has also highlighted significant financial and cyber security concerns linked to such platforms. Unauthorized operators often require passengers to share sensitive information such as PNR details, mobile numbers, email addresses and payment credentials. This can expose users to phishing attacks, online fraud and misuse of personal data. In cases where meals are cancelled or not delivered, passengers are often left without customer support or an official grievance redressal mechanism, resulting in financial losses.

As part of the enforcement campaign, IRCTC has escalated its action beyond routine warnings. A formal legal notice was issued to unauthorized operators on February 18, 2026, followed by the filing of official criminal complaints on March 16 and April 11, 2026. The corporation stated that legal proceedings have been initiated under applicable laws and regulations against entities found violating railway and food delivery norms.

During the special drive, IRCTC identified several websites and platforms allegedly involved in unauthorized food delivery services. These include railrestro.com, railrestro.in, railmitra.com, travelkhana.com, trainscafe.com, dibrail.com, railfood.net, comesum.com, travelerfood.com, foodontrack.in, ecatering.app, khanaonline.in, trainway.in, railmeal.com and trainmenu.com. Appropriate legal and regulatory action has been initiated against these operators.

IRCTC has urged passengers to use only its official e-Catering platforms and authorized partners for ordering meals during train journeys. The corporation emphasized that official channels ensure food hygiene standards, verified billing, secure payment processing and dedicated customer support.

Over the years, IRCTC’s e-Catering service has emerged as one of the most popular passenger convenience initiatives on Indian Railways. The service allows passengers traveling on reserved trains to pre-book meals from a wide range of restaurants and food brands, with delivery directly to their seats at designated stations.

The platform offers extensive food choices catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Passengers can choose from traditional Indian meals, regional delicacies, fast food, snacks and premium cuisine options. Major brands associated with the service include Behrouz Biryani, Bikanerwala, Biryani Blues, Biryani By Kilo, Domino’s, Faasos, Firangi Bake, Haldiram, KFC, La Pino’z Pizza, Lunchbox, McDonald’s, Oven Story, Pizza Hut and Sweet Truth.

IRCTC has also partnered with leading food delivery aggregators such as Zomato and Swiggy, further expanding food options available to railway passengers. Features such as real-time order tracking, seamless digital payments and dedicated customer support have enhanced the overall passenger experience.

As of April 2026, the e-Catering service operates at more than 400 railway stations across India. The network includes over 629 direct vendors and 5,604 vendors connected through 13 authorized food aggregators. The service recorded an average of 1,55,356 meal bookings per day during April 2026, highlighting its growing popularity among rail travelers.

IRCTC reiterated its commitment to providing safe, hygienic and quality food delivery services while maintaining strict vigilance against unauthorized operators. Passengers have been advised to place orders only through the official IRCTC e-Catering website, the Food on Track mobile application, the 1323 call centre service or authorized IRCTC e-Catering partners to ensure a secure and reliable dining experience during train journeys.