Indian Railways Cracks Down On Illegal Vendors, Introduces QR-Based Tracking System

New rules ban unauthorised hawkers from trains and platforms; focus shifts to safety, hygiene and digital monitoring

In a major move to improve passenger safety and food quality, Indian Railways has introduced strict measures to curb illegal vending across trains and railway premises, including a new QR code-based identification and digital tracking system.

The initiative aims to eliminate unauthorised hawkers and ensure that only verified vendors operate within the railway network.

No Entry For Illegal Hawkers

Under the new rules, unauthorised vendors are no longer allowed to enter railway premises or sell food on trains. Authorities have made it clear that illegal vending is punishable, and enforcement drives are being intensified across stations and onboard services. 

Railway Protection Force (RPF) teams and railway officials are conducting regular inspections and special drives to identify and remove such vendors.

QR Code Identity Cards For Vendors

A key highlight of the reform is the introduction of QR code-based identity cards for all authorised vendors, helpers and catering staff.

These QR codes allow instant verification of a vendor’s identity, including details such as name, Aadhaar information, medical fitness and police verification status. 

This step is aimed at ensuring transparency and preventing unauthorised individuals from operating in trains.

Food Packets Now Digitally Traceable

Railways has also introduced QR codes on food packets supplied onboard. Passengers can scan these codes to access information such as the source kitchen and date of preparation. 

This move is expected to improve accountability and build trust in railway catering services.

Focus On Hygiene And Food Safety

To further enhance standards, meals will now be prepared in designated base kitchens equipped with CCTV surveillance for monitoring food preparation.

Authorities have also made it mandatory to use branded raw materials and ensure FSSAI certification for catering units. Food safety supervisors, regular inspections, pest control and deep cleaning are being implemented across the system. 

Wider Crackdown Underway

Alongside these reforms, enforcement agencies are continuing strict action against illegal vendors. Thousands of unauthorised hawkers have already been removed in recent drives, reflecting a zero-tolerance approach.

The combined push of digital tracking and stricter enforcement is expected to significantly improve hygiene, reduce overcharging, and make train travel safer for passengers.