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For the first time, passengers on an Indian train can now withdraw cash while traveling. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video on X (formerly Twitter), announcing the launch of the country's first onboard ATM service. This new facility has been introduced on the Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express.
The ATM has been installed in partnership with the Bank of Maharashtra and is part of Indian Railways' efforts to offer more passenger-friendly services. This service comes under the Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS), aiming to improve customer experience and also generate additional income for the railways.
Installed in an AC Coach
The ATM has been set up inside an air-conditioned chair car coach of the Panchavati Express. It is located at the rear end of the coach, inside a small cubicle. A shutter door has been provided for safety and privacy. Though it is located in just one coach, the entire train is vestibule-connected, which means passengers from all 22 coaches can easily access the ATM by walking through the train.
Network and Accessibility
The ATM works using mobile network signals. So, as long as there is mobile connectivity, passengers can withdraw cash without any problem. However, there may be some signal issues in areas like Igatpuri-Kasara, which could affect ATM service for a short time. Despite this, the service is expected to be useful for most of the journey.
Additional Services Available
This ATM is not just for cash withdrawals. It also provides a few extra banking services. Passengers can use it to order cheque books or request account statements. These added features make the ATM more useful for those who need quick banking access while on the move.
Future Expansion Plans
This onboard ATM idea is being tested on the Panchavati Express. If it gets good response and works well, Indian Railways may install similar ATMs in more trains in the future. It is a new way of making train journeys more convenient for travelers.
While many people appreciated the idea, some netizens raised a question. They asked why such services are being promoted when the government is encouraging a cashless economy. The answer may be that not all passengers use digital payments, and in emergencies, cash access can be very helpful-especially during long journeys or in remote areas where digital payment options may not work.
The ATM-on-train idea is still new, but it could make train travel more comfortable for many.
