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Passengers on select trains can now order food via WhatsApp
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) said the service was being introduced as part of efforts to make e-catering services more customer-centric
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) on Monday announced passengers will now be able to order food while travelling on select trains via WhatsApp as part of efforts to make e-catering services more customer-centric. The service will be extended to other trains after customer feedback and suggestions, it added.
Passengers will receive messages with the link to a website after booking tickets from IRCTC’s WhatsApp number +91-8750001323 for placing their orders. They do not necessarily have to download any app and can order food directly from the restaurants at stations en route through the website.
“In the next phase of the services, WhatsApp number will be enabled to become an interactive two-way communication platform for the customer wherein an AI power chatbot will handle all queries of e-catering services for the passengers and will also book meals for them,” the railway ministry said in a statement.
E-catering is an internet-based IRCTC service that allows passengers to book food from partner restaurants and food outlets through a mobile application. Around 50000 meals are served daily to customers through the services enabled on its website as well as the app.
