India’s First ATM-on-Train Service Launched on Panchavati Express

In a groundbreaking move, Indian Railways has launched the country’s first onboard Automated Teller Machine (ATM) on the Panchavati Express, which operates between Mumbai and Manmad. This innovative facility, introduced in collaboration with the Bank of Maharashtra under the Indian Railways’ Innovative and Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (INFRIS), marks a significant milestone in enhancing passenger convenience.

The ATM has been installed in the pantry space at the rear of the Air-Conditioned Chair Car coach, and a dedicated shutter mechanism ensures the machine’s security. This initiative, managed by the Bhusawal Division of Indian Railways, has already seen a successful trial run.

Passengers can now withdraw cash even while the train is in motion. “The response so far has been positive. We’re closely monitoring the service,” said Bhusawal Divisional Railway Manager Iti Pandey. The ATM is accessible to passengers from all 22 coaches through interconnecting vestibules, regardless of class or ticket type.

Beyond cash withdrawals, the ATM offers additional banking services such as chequebook requests and account statement generation, providing a broader utility to passengers during travel. To ensure 24/7 security, the ATM is under constant surveillance by CCTV cameras.

This innovative step aims to provide greater accessibility to financial services for railway passengers and may pave the way for similar installations on other trains. If feedback remains encouraging, railway authorities have hinted at expanding the facility across more routes and services.

With this initiative, Indian Railways continues to redefine travel convenience, blending technology and utility in ways that enhance the everyday passenger experience. The Panchavati Express now stands as a symbol of this forward-thinking approach, becoming India’s first moving train equipped with an ATM.