IRCTC Issues Advisory for Railway Catering Units to Prepare for LPG Supply Disruptions
In a proactive move to safeguard passenger services, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has directed catering units at railway stations to implement contingency plans. This includes stocking ready-to-eat (RTE) food items and switching to alternative cooking methods like microwaves and induction systems. The aim is to ensure uninterrupted food service for travelers, even if commercial LPG cylinder supplies face interruptions.
Circular Details and Global Context
The directive was formalized in a circular issued by IRCTC's West Zone office on March 10. It specifically targets operators of Food Plazas, Refreshment Rooms, and Jan Ahaar outlets. The advisory stems from growing concerns that global supply chain disruptions, potentially linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, could impact the availability of LPG used by these station-based catering units.
Key instructions from the circular include:
- Immediate adoption of alternate cooking methods, such as microwave ovens and induction stoves, wherever feasible.
- Maintaining adequate stocks of ready-to-eat food items to serve meals to passengers if conventional cooking becomes difficult due to LPG shortages.
- Prompt notification to IRCTC if any unit discontinues cooking operations using LPG, so that alternative arrangements can be swiftly organized.
Scope and Rationale Behind the Move
This directive applies to static catering units across stations under the IRCTC West Zone, which covers several major divisions, including those under Central Railway and Western Railway. Railway officials have emphasized that the move is intended to ensure seamless catering services for passengers, despite possible fuel supply disruptions. By preparing for such scenarios, IRCTC aims to minimize any inconvenience to travelers and maintain operational efficiency in the face of external challenges.
The advisory highlights the importance of adaptability in public service infrastructure, especially in times of global uncertainty that may affect essential resources like LPG.
