In a novel attempt to blend convenience with innovation, Indian Railways has installed the country’s first onboard ATM in the Panchvati Express, operating between Mumbai and Manmad. This initiative, part of the Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS), has been launched in collaboration with the Bank of Maharashtra.
Housed in an air-conditioned coach, the ATM successfully completed its trial run and now allows passengers to withdraw cash mid-journey. The machine also offers services like cheque book requests and account statements.
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Despite minor network issues between Igatpuri and Kasara, which is a stretch notorious for poor signal due to tunnels, railway officials report that the system functioned smoothly throughout the rest of the trip.
Divisional Railway Manager Ity Pandey explained that the idea was pitched during an INFRIS meeting and swiftly developed. Though located in an AC coach, the ATM is accessible to passengers across all 22 coaches via connected vestibules. The same ATM unit also serves passengers on the Mumbai-Hingoli Jan Shatabdi Express, since both trains share the same rake.
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For security, the ATM is monitored by CCTV and is fitted with a shutter system to prevent tampering. While the idea might seem excessive to some in an era of digital payments, the Indian Railways is betting on the relevance of cash accessibility, particularly for travelers on long-distance routes.
Officials are monitoring usage patterns and have indicated that if the service proves popular, similar installations could appear on more trains across the country, possibly turning Indian trains into rolling financial hubs.
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