In a landmark move that marks a turning point in the modernization of India’s railway services, Central Railway has introduced the country’s first onboard ATM, installed inside the iconic Panchavati Express. This innovative initiative is being hailed as a significant leap toward improving passenger convenience and banking accessibility on-the-go.

All Aboard, With Cash in Hand

Dubbed as a “cash-on-the-go” facility, the ATM has been installed in an AC coach of the Panchavati Express, which operates between Nashik and Mumbai. What was once a pantry area has now been transformed into a secure, CCTV-monitored ATM cubicle, offering passengers round-the-clock access to banking services—even while the train is in motion.

This onboard ATM is functional throughout the train’s journey, enabling passengers to withdraw cash during transit—a first in India’s vast railway network.

️ Route and Reach

The ATM-equipped coach will also serve passengers of the Mumbai–Hingoli Jan Shatabdi Express, as both trains share the same rake. This means the ATM will be accessible across multiple journeys, benefiting a wide pool of daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike.

Powered by Collaboration

The ambitious project is a collaborative effort between the Bhusawal Division of Central Railway and the Bank of Maharashtra. The setup is part of a larger initiative to integrate smart banking infrastructure with essential public transport services.

“This is a proud moment for Indian Railways. Our goal is to continuously innovate and enhance passenger experience,” said a Central Railway official. “The ATM will bring real-time financial accessibility to thousands of travelers every day.”

Safety and Accessibility

The ATM unit is housed in a lockable enclosure, fitted with surveillance cameras and accessible via a connecting lobby to ensure passenger safety. It’s available to all passengers, regardless of their ticket class, making it a universal facility onboard.

Additionally, train attendants have been briefed on the system, and emergency protocols have been put in place to handle technical or security issues.

 Future-Forward Thinking

This initiative is being closely watched by other railway divisions and banking partners. If successful, similar models could be replicated across premium trains in other zones, potentially turning Indian Railways into a mobile hub for essential public services beyond just transport.

  Reactions and Road Ahead

Passengers have welcomed the move enthusiastically. Many have called it a “much-needed modernization,” especially for long-haul travelers who may not have access to ATMs at smaller stations or during overnight journeys.

“I forgot to withdraw cash before boarding, and this ATM saved me,” said a daily commuter between Nashik and Mumbai. “This is how modern India should function!”

While it’s still early days, railway officials are optimistic. There are plans to explore digital banking kiosks, mobile wallet recharge zones, and even smart vending solutions inside trains in the near future.

Has Indian Railways just unlocked the next era of travel convenience? One thing is clear — the journey to innovation is now running on track.