How is Indian Railways Enhancing Passenger Experience with Regional Cuisines on Vande Bharat Trains?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Introduction of regional cuisines on Vande Bharat trains.
- Enhances passenger experience with local flavors.
- Offers a taste of India’s diverse culinary heritage.
- Initiative to be expanded across the railway network.
- Reflects cultural significance of food in travel.
Mumbai, Dec 18 (NationPress) On Thursday, Indian Railways unveiled a new initiative to enhance passenger experience on Vande Bharat trains by introducing regional cuisine services through IRCTC. This initiative is designed to present culturally significant meals and authentic local flavors directly to travelers.
Passengers aboard the Nagpur–Secunderabad Vande Bharat Express will have the opportunity to enjoy Maharashtra’s Kanda Poha, along with South Indian Dondakaya Karam Podi Fry and Andhra Pradesh’s Andhra Kodi Kura, as stated by the Railways Ministry.
In a similar vein, the Mumbai Central-Gandhinagar Vande Bharat Express features Methi Thepla, while Masala Lauki is offered on the Sabarmati Junction–Veraval Vande Bharat Express.
Travelers can also relish Odisha’s Aloo Phulkopi on the Howrah–Puri Vande Bharat Express.
The culinary offerings from Kerala include a traditional feast comprising white rice, Pachakka Cherupayar Mezhukku Perati, Kadala Curry, Kerala Paratha, plain curd, and Palada Payasam, available on both the Kasargod–Trivandrum and Mangalore–Trivandrum Vande Bharat Express. Additionally, Kosha Paneer is served on the Rourkela–Howrah Vande Bharat Express and Aloo Potol Bhaja on the Howrah–Puri Vande Bharat Express, as reported by the ministry.
Bihar’s famous dishes such as Champaran Paneer are on the menu for the Patna-Ranchi Vande Bharat Express, while Champaran Chicken is offered on the Patna-Howrah Vande Bharat Express.
Moreover, the Jammu-Kashmir region’s Vande Bharat trains provide a variety of local dishes including Ambal Kaddu, Jammu Chana Masala, Tomato Chaman, and Kesar Phirni.
This initiative follows discussions led by Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw with officials regarding the inclusion of local cuisine on Vande Bharat trains, with plans for a broader rollout across the railway network.
During a review meeting at Rail Bhawan, the minister emphasized that the introduction of local cuisine would significantly enrich the passenger experience by providing food that embodies the culture and flavors of the regions traveled. This service is expected to be progressively expanded to all trains in the future.