- By Vaidika Thapa
- Wed, 11 Mar 2026 03:25 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has asked its catering partners to change their cooking methods amid LPG shortage. It has asked them to adopt alternative cooking methods, such as microwave ovens and electric induction systems, at railway food centres.
The directive has been issued to catering units such as Food Plazas, Refreshment Rooms (RR), and Jan Ahaars which operate across railway stations. The move comes amid reports of disruptions in global energy supply chains due to escalating tensions in West Asia. It has reportedly begin affecting LPG availability in India also.
What Did IRCTC Say?
To prevent any disruption in passenger services, IRCTC has instructed catering units at railway stations to adopt alternative cooking arrangements. It has also asked them to maintain adequate food stocks. A circular, dated March 10, has emerged online, which mentions that IRCTC has instructed all catering units in the West Zone to temporarily stop LPG-based cooking wherever possible.
ALSO READ: Why LPG Prices In India Reacted Faster Than Petrol And Diesel To Middle East Conflict | Key Reasons
The catering partners have been advised to switch to induction cooktops, microwave ovens, and other electric cooking appliances. This has been suggested to ensure uninterrupted food preparation in case LPG supply is further affected. The IRCTC has also asked vendors to maintain adequate inventories of Ready-to-Eat (RTE) food products.
A railway official said, “Meals served to passengers on trains are prepared at IRCTC base kitchens. If there is any disruption in LPG availability, it will directly impact meal preparation and supply to trains.”
Meanwhile, it is reported that IRCTC has also planned to temporarily suspend cooked meal services on trains and offer refunds to passengers who pre-booked meals with their tickets.
Earlier on Tuesday, Union petroleum and natural gas minister, Hardeep Singh Puri had stated that domestic consumers in India will not face any energy shortage despite the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
ALSO READ: Commercial LPG Shortage Begins Hitting Restaurants As Kitchens Struggle For Gas Supply