SRINAGAR: Indian Railways has rolled out QR code-enabled identity cards for catering staff and digitally traceable food packets in trains to eliminate unauthorised vending and improve onboard food safety.
According to a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau under the Ministry of Railways, the new system mandates QR-based ID cards for all authorised vendors, helpers and catering personnel working on trains. The QR codes will verify staff credentials and display key details, including name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness and police verification, helping passengers identify legitimate service providers.
In a parallel move, QR codes have also been introduced on food packets supplied onboard. These codes will provide information such as the source kitchen and date of preparation, enabling traceability and accountability in case of complaints related to food quality or hygiene.
Officials said the initiative is aimed at preventing unauthorised hawkers from operating on trains, a punishable offence under the Railways Act, 1989. Enforcement teams, including the Railway Protection Force, will continue regular inspections and special drives to curb such practices.
The Railways has also strengthened catering standards through measures such as sourcing meals from designated base kitchens, installing CCTV cameras, deploying food safety supervisors and onboard inspectors, and ensuring mandatory FSSAI certification. Regular audits, food sampling, pest control and staff training programmes are also being carried out.
The Ministry said the reforms are expected to enhance food quality, hygiene and passenger confidence across the railway network.
