Prayagraj: After successfully converting discarded rail coaches into restaurants, the Prayagraj division of North Central Railway (NCR) is preparing to launch the country's first locomotive restaurant at Chheoki railway station. This innovative project involves transforming a retired electric engine into a contemporary, air-conditioned dining facility.
Project Details
The pilot project is being executed by the Prayagraj Division of NCR in collaboration with a Jhansi-based firm. The restaurant is being developed near the station's main entrance gate, where the old locomotive is being refurbished with modern interiors while preserving its railway identity. Designed to accommodate 46 diners, the restaurant will feature rail-inspired décor and additional outdoor seating arrangements.
Menu and Services
According to railway officials, the menu is expected to cater to a wide range of tastes, offering North Indian platters, local delicacies, fast food, and global cuisine. Besides dine-in services, customers will also be able to place online orders.
Sustainability and Revenue Generation
Railway officials stated that the initiative aims to promote sustainable reuse of retired assets while generating additional revenue and creating employment opportunities. The project is being implemented under the guidance of Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Rajnish Agrawal and Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) Hari Mohan. Parvat Singh, proprietor of the executing firm, mentioned that the transformation of the old electric locomotive is expected to be completed within three months.
Future Plans
Railway sources indicated that if the concept proves successful in Prayagraj, similar locomotive restaurants may be introduced at other railway stations across the country. Earlier, the division launched a 'rail coach' restaurant at Prayagraj Junction and Subedarganj station. While the outlet at Prayagraj Junction has since been shut due to poor response, the Subedarganj unit continues to perform reasonably well.
Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Prayagraj Division, Amit Kumar Singh, said: “People have seen and experienced a rail coach, but sitting inside the locomotive and sharing the experience while dining promises substantial business potential.”
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About the Author: Rajeev Mani has been working in TOI's Prayagraj bureau for the past two decades, handling beats from education to excise and taxation to aviation. He loves travelling, singing, and meeting people, especially academics. He has extensively covered two Ardh Kumbhs (2007 and 2019) and two Maha Kumbhs (2013 and 2025) along with different assembly and general elections.
