The Shatabdi Express is one of India’s premier train services, renowned for its speed, punctuality, and passenger comfort. It is a popular choice for travelers who value convenience, especially for short to medium distances. One of the hallmarks of the Shatabdi Express is its onboard catering service, which is included in the ticket price for most classes
We explore the food quality, menu offerings, and associated costs, offering a detailed look at what passengers can expect during their journey.
Food Service in Shatabdi Express
Shatabdi Express trains offer pre-packed meals prepared under hygienic conditions. Catering is managed by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), which ensures a standardized menu and consistent service across routes. Meals are tailored to the time of the journey and ticket class, with options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Types of Meals Provided
- Breakfast
Breakfast typically includes:
Veg Option: Bread slices, butter, jam, vegetable cutlets, boiled vegetables, and fruit juice.
Non-Veg Option: Bread slices, butter, jam, an omelet, and fruit juice.
Accompaniments: Tea or coffee with milk and sugar sachets.
- Snacks
Mid-morning or evening snacks may include:
Sandwiches
Veg patties or samosas
Packaged biscuits or namkeen
Tea or coffee
- Lunch and Dinner
Veg Option: Rice, chapati or paratha, dal, mixed vegetable curry, paneer preparation, curd, and dessert (such as a brownie or ice cream).
Non-Veg Option: Rice, chapati or paratha, dal, chicken curry, curd, and dessert.
- Evening Tea
Evening tea typically includes:
Tea or coffee
A snack (such as a muffin, kachori, or samosa)
Packaged biscuits or peanuts
Food Prices in Shatabdi Express
Food costs in Shatabdi Express trains are included in the ticket price for Executive and Chair Car classes. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate costs per meal, based on class:
Meal Executive Class Chair Car
Breakfast ₹120–₹150 ₹80–₹100
Snacks ₹100–₹120 ₹70–₹90
Lunch/Dinner ₹300–₹350 ₹200–₹250
Evening Tea ₹80–₹100 ₹60–₹80
If you opt out of catering at the time of booking, you can purchase food onboard by paying these prices.
Food Quality
- Hygiene Standards
Food served on Shatabdi Express trains is prepared in IRCTC base kitchens located at major stations. These kitchens follow stringent hygiene protocols, including:
Use of fresh ingredients
Regular inspections and audits
Packaging in sealed containers to maintain freshness
- Taste and Variety
While the quality and taste are generally good, feedback varies among passengers. Some appreciate the balanced flavors and timely service, while others occasionally report issues with portion sizes or food temperature.
- Customization and Special Meals
IRCTC offers special meals on request, including:
Jain Meals: No onion or garlic.
Diabetic Meals: Low sugar and low fat.
Baby Food: Simplified, nutritious options for infants.
Passengers with dietary restrictions can specify their preferences while booking tickets or inform the catering staff onboard.
Challenges and Common Complaints
Inconsistent Quality: Quality can vary slightly depending on the base kitchen.
Temperature Issues: Some passengers report that meals are not always served hot.
Portion Size: While adequate for most, some passengers feel the portions are too small for longer journeys.
Delayed Service: Occasionally, food service timings may be disrupted due to operational delays.
Recent Initiatives to Improve Food Quality
E-Catering Services: IRCTC allows passengers to order meals from partner restaurants via the “Food on Track” app. This provides more options and higher quality food for those who prefer alternatives.
Feedback Mechanisms: Passengers can provide real-time feedback through the IRCTC app or onboard complaint books, ensuring accountability.
Upgraded Kitchens: Several base kitchens have been modernized with automated equipment to enhance food quality.
Tips for Passengers
Pre-Order Meals: If you have specific dietary preferences, pre-order special meals during ticket booking.
Inspect Packaging: Always check the packaging and seal of food items before consuming them.
Stay Hydrated: Complimentary bottled water is provided, but you can request more if needed.
The food service on Shatabdi Express trains is a well-integrated feature that enhances the travel experience. While the quality and variety are commendable, there is room for improvement in consistency and portion sizes. The inclusion of meals in ticket prices for most classes makes the service convenient and hassle-free for passengers. For those seeking more variety or personalized options, IRCTC’s e-catering services provide an excellent alternative.
Travelers can rest assured that the Indian Railways is continually working to enhance the culinary experience onboard Shatabdi Express trains, making it a reliable choice for comfortable and satisfying journeys.
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