Now a toll-free number for complaint against food in trains

New Delhi: If you have any grievance against the food served on trains, just dial 1800111321 to lodge your complaint. The toll-free number launched by railways is operational from 7 am to 10 pm throughout the week.

Concerned over increasing number of complaints against catering service in trains and stations, Railway Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal on Wednesday announced a slew of measures, including the toll-free number, to improve the quality of food for passengers. "Anyone can call the toll-free number and register his or her complaint and it will be addressed," said Bansal.

"The complaint can relate to anything including overcharging, less quantity or substandard quality. It will be addressed on real-time basis," he said. The number has been operational since January 18 and till date 26 complaints have been received.

Assuring the passengers of action against erring catering contractors, Bansal said mobile squads have been formed to keep a regular check on contractors in trains and stations and the toll-free number will be displayed in coaches and stations prominently to make passengers aware about the facility.

Admitting that the quality of curd served in trains is not good, Bansal said "we are finalising a policy to ensure that only curd prepared by reputed companies are served". Similarly, efforts are on to improve the menu in trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Duronto.