Indian Railways crackdown on illegal vendors: QR code IDs now mandatory for onboard sales
Indian Railways has increased strictness against unauthorized vendors and hawkers in trains and stations. To ensure passenger safety and food quality, only sellers with a QR code-enabled ID will be allowed to sell items. TTEs and RPF personnel will now work together to identify and remove illegal sellers from the coaches.
📰: Indian Railways to upgrade ticket booking system by August 2026, booking speed to increase fivefold।
What is the new QR code system for vendors?
Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that QR code-enabled identity cards are now mandatory for individual vendors, helpers, and catering staff. These IDs contain the vendor’s name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness details, and police verification. This digital system helps passengers and officials verify the authenticity of the seller instantly.
How will the enforcement work in trains?
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) is conducting special drives to catch illegal hawkers. If a TTE finds an unauthorized seller, they will immediately notify the RPF and the control room for action. In some divisions like Kanpur, RFID codes are also being introduced to track registered vendors via a mobile application.
Recent actions against unauthorized vending
| Location | Action Taken | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Nagda | Case Registered | 5 vendors caught selling food without IRCTC license |
| Jhansi | Seizure | 60 bottles of unauthorized brand water seized |
| Kota | Special Drive | TTEs given responsibility to catch illegal vendors |
| Mumbai | Arrest | Person posing as RPF staff caught in AC Local |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if a vendor does not have a QR code ID?
Vendors without a QR code ID are considered unauthorized. They can be caught by TTEs and RPF, and action will be taken under Section 144 of the Railways Act, 1989.
What information is available in the vendor’s QR code?
The QR code displays the vendor’s name, Aadhaar number, police verification status, and medical fitness records to ensure authenticity.