New Delhi: Indian Railways has made a big change in catering policy. Soon, big food chains like KFC, McDonald’s, Baskin Robbins, Pizza Hut, Haldiram’s and Bikanerwala may open their outkets at many railway stations of the country. Railway Board has revised its catering policy and approved the opening of premium brand outlets. This will allow passengers to get several branded food products at the stations.
According to a TOI report, South Central Railway (South Central Railway) had first proposed to formulate guidelines for premium brand outlets. This step has been taken at a time when more than 1200 railway stations are being redeveloped across the country. Modern stations built in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad can easily provide space to these brands.
Indian Railways New Catering Policy
According to the revised rules issued by the Railways, Zonal Railways will now be able to decide at which stations such outlets should be opened. Both single-brand and company-owned or franchise outlets can be opened.
These will be included in the planning or blueprint of the station, but this will not affect the pre-existing reservation policy.
Under the existing reservation policy in regards to stalls at railway stations, the stall share is fixed for SCs, STs, OBCs, freedom fighters, their widows and people separated from the land acquired by the Railways. Railways has clarified that new premium brand outlets will not be given on the basis of nomination. All allotments will be done through e-auction (online auction). Each brand will be given 5 years for an outlet.
At present, there are three types of stalls at railway stations.
- Beverages and snacks
- Tea stall
- Milk Bar & Juice Bar
Now, a fourth category has been added. Its name is “Premium Brand Catering Outlet”.
Every day about 2.3 million passengers avail train servuces across India. The number of passengers at many big stations is so high that the demand for opening branded food outlets was constantly increasing. With this decision, passengers will get reliable and clean food options at the station. At the same time, the modern look of railway stations will be further strengthened, which will improve the experience of passengers. Railway’s new catering policy is a big step in making the station environment and services more modern and convenient.