Passengers traveling on premium trains like Rajdhani Express have been facing confusion about complimentary amenities since Indian Railways made onboard meals optional. The central question troubling many travelers is simple: if they choose the 'No Meals' option while booking, will they still receive the free one-litre Rail Neer water bottle traditionally provided on these services?
Understanding IRCTC's Optional Meal Policy
In the post-COVID period, Indian Railways introduced significant changes to its catering system. Food services on three premium trains - Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, and Vande Bharat Express - became optional for passengers. When booking tickets online through the IRCTC portal or app, travelers must explicitly choose whether they want to include onboard meals in their journey.
The system works on an inclusion-exclusion basis. If passengers opt for meals, catering charges are added to their total ticket fare. Conversely, those who decline meals during the booking process receive a deduction in their fare equivalent to the meal charges. This flexibility allows passengers to customize their travel expenses according to their preferences.
The Water Bottle Confusion Clarified
Many passengers had assumed that the complimentary water bottle was linked to the meal service. This led to widespread uncertainty about whether choosing the 'No Meals' option would mean forfeiting the free Rail Neer water bottle that has long been a standard amenity on these premium trains.
However, a senior IRCTC official speaking to IndianExpress.com has put all speculation to rest. The official confirmed unequivocally that the one-litre Rail Neer water bottle continues to be provided free of charge to all passengers boarding Rajdhani Express and other premium trains, regardless of their meal preference.
This means that even passengers who opt out of meals during booking will still receive their complimentary water bottle after boarding the train. The water provision remains an independent amenity not connected to the meal selection process.
Recent Confusion About Mandatory Meals
The clarification comes at a crucial time when passengers recently experienced another wave of confusion. Last month, several users reported that the IRCTC booking platform appeared to be making meal selection mandatory again. Social media platforms and travel forums were abuzz with claims that the 'No Food' option had been removed from the booking process for premium trains.
However, railway authorities quickly addressed these concerns. A senior railway official confirmed that the 'No Food' option remains available during the ticket booking process, with only minor interface changes affecting its placement on the webpage. "Option to opt out is available on same page," the official stated, dismissing rumors about compulsory meal charges.
Passengers also retain the flexibility to change their minds during the journey. Even those who initially decline meals while booking can still order food later during their travel, ensuring that travel plans remain adaptable to changing needs and preferences.
The current system represents Indian Railways' ongoing effort to balance passenger convenience with operational efficiency, providing travelers with more control over their journey experience while maintaining essential services like complimentary drinking water.
