"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
11 Aug 2019
The Ahmedabad Division of the Western Railway zone has started an airlines-like initiative to allow railway passengers to shop while travelling. This service has been introduced in train number 12934 Ahmedabad Junction – Mumbai Central Karnavati Express.
There is good news for passengers travelling in Indian Railways as it introduces an onboard shopping experience. A total of 16 Mail/Express trains were shortlisted by Indian Railways for which the contract was awarded for 5 years to HBN Network Private Limited.
The shopping cart includes FMCG goods under the category of home and kitchen appliances, beauty along with other fitness products. Sale of cigarettes, tobacco, gutka or any type of eatables is not permitted under the contract. Passengers can make cash or cashless payment using credit cards, debit cards, Google Pay and Paytm.
As is in the case of aircraft, passengers will be given catalogues and they will be allowed to choose from the variety of options. The sales staff who are in uniform with company ID will move along with the trolly enabling passengers to buy the products of their choice.
The Railways has set the time of sale from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM so that no inconvenience is caused to the passengers. The sales staff are given training so that they don’t shout and indulge in loud promotional activities.