Nagpur: In a move aimed at improving passenger convenience and boosting usage of the newly revived prepaid cab service, Central Railway's Nagpur Division has relocated the taxi pick-up zone at Nagpur Railway Station to a more visible and easily accessible location just outside the main entrance of the heritage building.
Background of the Service
The cab service, which resumed operations around a fortnight ago after a gap of nearly one-and-a-half years, was initially operating from a spot near the dome area of Platform No. 1. However, passengers, particularly senior citizens, families with children and travellers carrying heavy luggage, found it inconvenient to reach the relatively secluded location.
New Pick-Up Point Details
The new pick-up point, situated about 200 metres from the earlier site, is now directly in the line of sight of passengers exiting the station, making it easier to locate and access. The relocation has been carried out under the supervision of divisional railway manager Vinayak Garg and senior divisional commercial manager Aman Mittal.
Railway officials expect the move to improve visibility of the service and encourage greater patronage of the prepaid cabs, which are intended to provide seamless last-mile connectivity at one of Central India's busiest railway stations.
Initial Response and Challenges
The shift comes amid reports of a subdued initial response to the service. While factors such as RTA-approved fares and an additional ₹50 convenience charge may have influenced commuter preferences, stakeholders believe poor visibility of the original location was a major deterrent.
"We wanted a more visible and convenient spot for the kiosk and pick-up zone," said a Bharat online cab representative. "We have also sought permission to start a pick-up service on the east (Cotton market) side gate," he said. "After settling in Nagpur railway station, we intend to expand operations to other stations like Itwari," he added.
Service Features and Operations
The prepaid cab service, operated by Bharat Cabs, was relaunched after months of uncertainty, ending a period during which passengers often had to walk nearly 500 metres outside the station premises to hire a taxi, even during extreme summer heat and monsoon showers.
A dedicated prepaid taxi booth has been established near the west-side exit. Passengers can scan a QR code, enter their destination, view Regional Transport Authority (RTA)-approved fares, pay at the counter and receive a receipt before boarding a cab.
Railway officials confirmed that space has currently been allocated for five cabs, with plans to expand the fleet as demand grows. The service operates on prepaid fares approved by the RTA, ensuring transparency and eliminating fare negotiations. Independent drivers can also join the Bharat Cabs network.
"We have almost 100 drivers on board but need customer response," said the cab representative.
Future Plans
Further improvements are also on the anvil. Railway authorities plan to introduce access-controlled pick-up zones, similar to airport systems, within the next few months. Officials said the relocation of the taxi pick-up point aligns with broader redevelopment plans for Nagpur and Ajni railway stations, focused on enhancing passenger amenities, parking infrastructure and multi-modal connectivity.
"This initiative is part of ongoing endeavors to modernize facilities at Nagpur Railway Station, ensuring it lives up to its role as a key transport hub serving Vidarbha and beyond," said a railway official.
