Central Railway Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) for Nagpur division, Vinayak Garg, has unveiled ambitious plans to revolutionize passenger experience at city railway stations, including the introduction of pre-paid cab services and access-controlled parking modeled after airports. During a visit to The Times Of India office, Garg shared a comprehensive blueprint aimed at addressing long-standing issues related to last-mile connectivity and station redevelopment.
Pre-Paid Cab and Auto Services Launch
Garg stated that the recently launched pre-paid cab service at Nagpur railway station resolves the long-pending problem of last-mile connectivity. Passengers can now approach a dedicated pre-paid booth, scan a QR code, and obtain fare details before boarding. Initially, space has been allocated for five cabs, with plans to gradually increase the fleet. A pre-paid auto-rickshaw service is also in the pipeline, accompanied by awareness drives to ensure passengers can use the facility conveniently.
Airport-Like Access Controlled Parking
Drawing inspiration from Nagpur Airport, Garg announced plans to implement an Access Controlled Parking system on the station's west side by July. Under this system, when a passenger books a cab via an app, the vehicle will be allowed to enter the premises within a specific time limit for pick-up. If the cab exceeds the limit, the driver will pay a nominal parking fee. However, the contractor will be penalized if traffic congestion occurs, preventing unnecessary waiting and ensuring smooth operations.
Addressing the Auto Mafia
To counter potential resistance from auto-rickshaw operators, Garg assured that Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel will be stationed near the premises to prevent untoward incidents and ensure passenger safety. A help desk will also be set up for passengers and cab drivers to report any threats or harassment promptly.
Integrated Mobility App and New Train Proposals
Garg has written to the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) commissioner suggesting the development of an integrated mobility app covering cabs, autos, Metro, and Apli Bus services, providing citizens a single platform for multiple transport options. Regarding train services, he noted that infrastructure development, including satellite terminals and third and fourth railway lines, is underway. Once completed, proposals for additional trains on the Nagpur-Pune and Nagpur-Mumbai routes can be considered. The demand for a sleeper Vande Bharat train on the Nagpur-Pune route has been sent to the railway ministry, and Garg remains hopeful it will be approved.
Station Redevelopment and Kavach Project
The Nagpur station redevelopment is expected to be completed by August 2027, while the ₹297-crore Ajni station redevelopment project has a deadline of May 2027. At Ajni, platforms will increase from three to seven, with operationalization planned by December, reducing the load on Nagpur main station. Ajni is being developed as the first satellite terminal, followed by Godhani station. Both stations will have access from both sides. Integration with MahaMetro is already underway, with a foot overbridge connecting Ajni railway station to the Metro station, and similar plans for the Cotton Market side of Nagpur station. The Kavach project, aimed at preventing train collisions, continuously monitors train movements and can automatically apply brakes to enhance safety.
