Indian Railways has introduced the country’s first-ever onboard ATM on the Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express, marking a significant innovation in passenger convenience.
ATM on Wheels: A New Chapter in Train Travel
The ATM, installed inside an air-conditioned coach of the Panchavati Express, successfully completed its trial run. This facility allows passengers to withdraw cash even while the train is in motion, offering a new level of accessibility and comfort during travel.
The initiative falls under Indian Railways’ Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS), and is the result of a collaborative effort between the Bhusawal division of Indian Railways and the Bank of Maharashtra.
Smooth Trial Run with Minor Hiccups
Officials reported that the ATM functioned smoothly throughout the journey. However, there were brief network disruptions in the Igatpuri-Kasara section due to poor mobile signal in the tunnels.
Ity Pandey, Divisional Railway Manager of Bhusawal, expressed satisfaction with the trial results. “People will now be able to withdraw cash while travelling. We will keep monitoring the performance of the machine,” she said.
Pandey also revealed that the idea originated during an INFRIS meeting and was swiftly taken forward by the team.
Accessibility and Additional Features
Although located in an AC coach, the ATM is accessible to passengers from all 22 coaches of the Panchavati Express, thanks to interconnecting vestibules. In addition to cash withdrawals, the machine offers services like cheque book requests and account statement generation.
Interestingly, this ATM will also serve passengers of the Mumbai-Hingoli Jan Shatabdi Express, as both trains share the same rake, thereby extending its benefits to a larger number of travelers on a longer route.
Security Measures and Future Expansion
To ensure passenger safety, the ATM is equipped with a secure shutter system and is monitored by CCTV cameras around the clock.
If the initiative receives a positive response from travelers, officials have indicated that similar ATMs may be installed in more trains across the country.
This first-of-its-kind development marks a promising step forward in enhancing passenger amenities on Indian Railways.
