First-of-Its-Kind Vending Gadget Launched
In a major step to enhance passenger comfort and service quality, Shri Lalit Bohra, Divisional Railway Manager of Waltair Division, East Coast Railway, has launched an innovative tea and coffee vending system on trains. This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to provide passengers with hotter, tastier, and more hygienic beverages while simplifying operations for vendors.
Hygienic and Passenger-Friendly Design
Traditionally, tea and coffee were served from open buckets or cans, raising hygiene concerns. The new wearable gadget features an insulated thermos container, separate pockets for tea and coffee packets, disposable cups, and a dedicated pocket for waste disposal. This ensures cleanliness and environmental safety, while freeing both hands of the vendor for smooth and safe service.
Digital Payments for Convenience
Passengers can make hassle-free digital payments via a QR code integrated into the gadget. The insulated container keeps beverages hot for longer durations, maintaining the quality of tea, coffee, soup, milk, and noodles served onboard.
Pilot Project on AP Express
The system has been introduced as a pilot project on the AP Express during the festive occasion of Bhogi-Sankranti. Shri Lalit Bohra emphasized that passenger feedback will be closely monitored to make further improvements before extending the initiative to more trains.
Benefits for Vendors and Passengers
The ergonomic gadget design reduces physical strain on vendors and allows easy movement across coaches. Each insulated can has a 5-litre capacity, serving around 35 passengers per round, enabling a single vendor to efficiently cover an entire coach.
Plans for Future Expansion
Based on the success of this onboard vending system, Waltair Division plans to expand the initiative to platform vending as well. The initiative, conceptualized by the Commercial Department and IRCTC under the guidance of Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Shri K Pavan Kumar, is expected to enhance passenger perception and satisfaction significantly.