MUMBAI: In a groundbreaking development, an ATM that has been installed within the Panchavati Express has successfully undergone its trial run. The ATM, placed in an air-conditioned coach, allows passengers to withdraw money while the train is on the move, making it more convenient for commuters on the Manmad in Nashik to Mumbai route.
The railway authorities informed that the trial ran smoothly, though there were interruptions in service only briefly due to network problems on the route between Igatpuri and Kasara, where mobile coverage has been known to be difficult in tunnels. The project was being implemented under the Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS), in collaboration with the Bank of Maharashtra.
Ity Pandey, the divisional railway manager for Bhusawal, stated, “The results were good. People will now be able to withdraw cash on a moving train. We’ll continue to monitor the performance of the machine.” The ATM is accessible to all passengers across the train, as all 22 coaches of the Panchavati Express are interconnected.
Passenger Sanjay Jha praised the initiative, noting its potential benefits, including the ability to order cheque books and receive bank statements. The ATM will also serve passengers on the Mumbai–Hingoli Janshatabdi Express, as it shares its rake with the Panchavati Express.
Railway officials indicated that if the service proves popular, it may be expanded to other trains. For security, the ATM features a shutter system and is under continuous CCTV surveillance.
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