India’s First Train ATM Makes a Smooth Debut on Panchavati Express Between Nashik and Mumbai; Cash Withdrawal and More
Passengers can now withdraw cash while on the move, with more services to follow
In a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, the Indian Railways has successfully trialed an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) inside a moving train. The breakthrough trial took place aboard the Panchavati Express, which operates between Manmad in Nashik and Mumbai. Installed in an air-conditioned coach, this onboard ATM marks a unique step in bringing essential banking services closer to passengers — literally on track.
The mobile ATM, developed through a collaboration between the Bhusawal division of the Indian Railways and Bank of Maharashtra, ran seamlessly during the trial except in the known no-network zone between Igatpuri and Kasara, an area dotted with tunnels. Despite these occasional signal drops, officials were pleased with the outcome.
“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,” said Bhusawal DRM Ity Pandey.
Conveniently placed inside a coach accessible through connected vestibules, the ATM allows passengers not only to withdraw money but also to request cheque books and get account statements. One of the early users, Alok Sharma, praised the initiative, calling it a “very helpful move” for travelers who often find themselves without cash during long journeys.
In an added advantage, the ATM won’t just serve passengers of the Panchavati Express. Since its rake is shared with the Mumbai-Hingoli Janshatabdi Express, travelers heading beyond Manmad all the way to Hingoli will also have access to this mobile banking service. Both trains operate with a total of three shared rakes, expanding the reach of this pilot project.
Railway officials are hopeful that if this concept gains popularity, similar ATMs may soon be rolled out on other major train routes across the country.
