In a groundbreaking stride towards enhancing passenger convenience, Indian Railways has successfully conducted the first trial of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) onboard a moving train. The trial, conducted on April 10, 2025, took place on the Mumbai-Manmad Panchavati Express, marking a historic milestone in India’s rail transport innovation. This pioneering initiative, dubbed “ATM on Wheels,” is a collaborative effort between Central Railway’s Bhusawal Division and the Bank of Maharashtra under the Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS).
The ATM, installed in an air-conditioned chair car coach, is housed in a secure cubicle at the rear, previously used as a makeshift pantry. Reinforced with rubber pads and bolts to withstand train vibrations and equipped with fire extinguishers, the setup ensures safety and functionality. A shutter door and 24/7 CCTV surveillance further enhance security, making the ATM accessible to all passengers via the train’s connected vestibules. The trial run was largely successful, with only minor network disruptions in the Igatpuri-Kasara stretch due to weak mobile reception.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw showcased the initiative on social media, sharing a video of a passenger using the Bank of Maharashtra ATM while the train was in motion. The move aligns with Indian Railways’ modernization push under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aiming to integrate cutting-edge technology for passenger benefit. “This is a game-changer for travelers, especially on long routes where access to cash can be a challenge,” said Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer, Central Railway.
The ATM also serves passengers of the Mumbai-Hingoli Jan Shatabdi Express, as it shares the same rake, extending the facility’s reach. If the pilot proves successful, Indian Railways plans to roll out similar ATMs on premium trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Duronto, revolutionizing onboard financial access. This initiative not only enhances convenience but also opens new avenues for non-fare revenue, setting a global benchmark in transport innovation.
As digital payments gain traction, some question the need for onboard ATMs. However, railway officials emphasize that cash remains vital for many passengers, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas. With over 8 billion annual passengers, even a modest rollout could transform financial accessibility across India’s rail network.
Stay tuned for updates as Indian Railways continues to redefine travel convenience!
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