IRCTC Cracks Down on Fake Food Delivery Apps on Trains
IRCTC takes legal action against unauthorized e-catering apps to prevent food safety risks and financial fraud. Use only official apps.
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has officially launched a massive enforcement drive against unauthorized e-catering mobile applications and websites. Moving beyond simple warnings, the corporation is now pursuing strict legal action against entities that misuse the IRCTC brand or operate food delivery services without proper authorization across the Indian Railways network.
Major Risks to Passenger Safety and Data
The crackdown, reaffirmed as of November 7–8, 2026, comes as IRCTC identifies several critical risks associated with these unverified platforms. Travelers using unauthorized apps face significant threats to their health and security:
- Food Safety Violations: Unlicensed vendors may not adhere to the strict regulations set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), potentially compromising meal hygiene and quality.
- Data Theft and Financial Fraud: Sharing sensitive details—such as PNR numbers, contact information, and payment credentials—on unverified portals increases the risk of phishing, identity theft, and financial scams.
- Lack of Grievance Support: These unauthorized services lack formal redressal mechanisms, leaving passengers vulnerable to order cancellations and non-delivery without any possibility of a refund.
These illegal operations also contribute to broader regulatory issues, including tax evasion, which undermines fair market competition within the railway ecosystem.
How to Order Food Safely
To ensure safety and service reliability during your journey, IRCTC strongly advises passengers to order meals exclusively through the following official channels:
- Official Website: Visit www.ecatering.irctc.co.in
- Mobile Application: Use the official "Food on Track" mobile application.
An updated list of authorized aggregators and vendors is always available on these official platforms to help travelers identify legitimate sources.
Report Illegal Activities
Passengers are encouraged to report any instances of unauthorized food vendors or illegal delivery activities directly to the Railway Protection Force (RPF) by dialing the helpline number 182.