Synopsis
On April 16, the Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express made history by becoming the first train in India to feature an onboard ATM, allowing passengers to withdraw cash while in motion, as part of an innovative initiative by Indian Railways.Key Takeaways
- Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express features India's first onboard ATM.
- ATM allows cash withdrawals while train is moving.
- Initiative part of Indian Railways’ INFRIS scheme.
- Collaborative effort with Bank of Maharashtra.
- Service may expand to more trains if successful.
Mumbai, April 16 (NationPress) In an unprecedented initiative, the Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express has set a landmark by becoming the first train in India to feature an onboard ATM.
This ATM has been installed in an air-conditioned coach and has successfully completed its trial operation.
The machine facilitates cash withdrawals for passengers while the train is in motion, as part of the Indian Railways’ Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS).
This project is the outcome of a partnership between the Bhusawal division of Indian Railways and the Bank of Maharashtra.
According to railway officials, the trial was successful, with the ATM operating effectively throughout the journey.
Nevertheless, there were minor network disruptions noted between Igatpuri and Kasara, an area known for its challenging signal conditions due to tunnels and limited mobile coverage.
Ity Pandey, the divisional railway manager at Bhusawal, commented, “The results were promising. Passengers can now withdraw cash while on the move. We will continue to assess the ATM's performance.”
Pandey further revealed that the concept was first introduced during an INFRIS meeting held by the Bhusawal division.
“Once the idea was proposed, our team promptly began devising a plan for implementation,” she noted.
Although the ATM is located in an AC coach, it is accessible to passengers across all 22 coaches of the Panchavati Express due to interconnecting vestibules.
Besides cash withdrawals, passengers can utilize the ATM to request cheque books and obtain account statements.
Interestingly, this same ATM will also serve passengers of the Mumbai–Hingoli Jan Shatabdi Express, as it shares the same rake with the Panchavati Express.
This arrangement means that more travelers on the extended route will also enjoy this facility.
For added security, the ATM is equipped with a shutter system and is under continuous surveillance by CCTV cameras.
Railway officials have indicated that the service may be extended to additional trains if it gains popularity among passengers.
