Railway passengers can now order food via WhatsApp; here's how

Passengers travelling in the Indian Railways will now be able to order food via WhatsApp while on the move by entering their PNR number. 

"To make its e-catering services more customer-centric, Indian Railways recently launched WhatsApp communication for train passengers to order food through e-catering services. For this purpose, a business WhatsApp number +91-8750001323 has been established," the Railway Ministry said in its statement. 

Initially, a two-stage implementation of e-catering services using WhatsApp Communication was planned. In the first phase, the Business WhatsApp number will send a message to the client who has purchased an e-ticket and has chosen to use e-catering services by visiting www.ecatering.irctc.co.in. 

Customers can book meals of their choice from restaurants available at stations en route directly through the IRCTC e-catering website without even having to download the app.

In the service's next step, the WhatsApp number will become an interactive two-way communication platform for the customer, with an AI-powered chatbot handling all e-catering service requests for the passengers and booking meals for them.

Currently, WhatsApp communication has been implemented for e-catering services on select trains. The service will be expanded to other trains following consumer feedback and ideas. 

E-catering is an IRCTC service that allows travellers to book food from partner restaurants and food outlets using a smartphone app. Customers receive approximately 50000 meals daily via the services available on its website and app.

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• IRCTC
• Indian Railway
• Indian Railway Catering
• Tourism Corporation
• WhatsApp
• WhatsApp food service