India's first onboard ATM successfully completed its trial run aboard the Panchavati Express. This daily superfast service, connecting Manmad in Nashik to Mumbai, now boasts a cash machine within an air-conditioned coach, marking a significant leap in passenger convenience.
The initiative, a collaboration between the Bhusawal Division of Central Railway and Bank of Maharashtra, falls under the Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS).
The trial proceeded smoothly, with only minor hiccups when the ATM briefly lost signal in the no-network zone between Igatpuri and Kasara, a stretch punctuated by tunnels. “The results were good,” said Ity Pandey, Divisional Railway Manager, Bhusawal. “People will now be able to withdraw cash on a moving train. We’ll continue to monitor the machine’s performance.” The ATM, housed in a secure cubicle, is accessible to passengers across all 22 vestibule-linked coaches, ensuring ease of use regardless of seating.
Passengers expressed delight at the novel facility. Sanjay Jha, a commuter, remarked, “This is a splendid initiative by Railways. People can withdraw money, order cheque books, and receive statements. It’s incredibly helpful.” The ATM’s utility extends beyond the Panchavati Express, as its rake is shared with the Mumbai–Hingoli Janshatabdi Express. This allows long-distance travellers to Hingoli to benefit from the service, broadening its reach.
Conceived during an INFRIS meeting, the idea swiftly gained traction. “We immediately discussed modalities when the proposal came up,” Pandey told The Times of India. Security measures are robust, with the ATM kiosk equipped with shutters and monitored by round-the-clock CCTV.
Should the service prove popular, officials plan to introduce onboard ATMs on other major trains. This trailblazing venture not only enhances passenger experience but also sets a precedent for innovative revenue streams in India’s vast railway network, promising a future where cash is always within reach, even at 100 km/h.
