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JAMMU: In a major step towards promoting transparency and the Digital India initiative, Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has declared the results of the e-auction process conducted for various commercial service packages across key railway stations. The initiative aims to enhance commercial earnings and generate additional non-fare revenue, which will be utilized for upgrading passenger amenities and railway infrastructure.
The Railway Administration stated that the e-auction system ensures equal and fair opportunities for local traders and entrepreneurs to provide services at railway stations through a completely transparent digital platform.
Among the major developments, the contract for the Rear SLR parcel service in Train No. 13152 has been successfully allotted. The initiative is expected to facilitate faster and safer transportation of goods and consignments for traders and businesses. Local shopkeepers and small traders will now find it easier and more economical to send and receive goods from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Punjab.
To strengthen passenger safety and convenience, an “Emergency Medical Room” will be established at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station. The facility is aimed at providing immediate medical assistance and first aid to pilgrims and passengers who may suddenly fall ill during their journey.
In another passenger-friendly initiative, the Railways have awarded a contract for modern Digital Locker Facilities at Katra Railway Station. The self-service kiosk system will allow passengers to securely store and retrieve their luggage without human intervention. The facility is expected to particularly benefit pilgrims arriving late at night or early in the morning, enabling them to proceed directly for the Bhawan pilgrimage without carrying heavy luggage or checking into hotels.
The contract for systematic vehicle parking management at Budgam Railway Station in Kashmir Valley has also been successfully allotted. The move is expected to streamline traffic movement and eliminate congestion caused by unorganized parking outside the station premises. Separate lanes for passenger drop-off and pick-up vehicles, including taxis, autos and private cars, will help ensure smoother traffic flow at the station entrance.
According to the Railway Administration, these e-auction initiatives will not only enhance railway revenue but also significantly improve passenger experience through the adoption of modern digital technology and better service management.
Highlighting another example of passenger-centric service, ticket checking staff of Jammu Division recently returned a lost watch to a passenger travelling on the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express. The incident occurred on May 15 when a passenger travelling in Coach E-1 accidentally left his watch in the train’s washroom.
Upon noticing the unattended watch, the on-duty staff immediately informed Train Superintendent Shri R.K. Meena, who made repeated announcements across all coaches through the Public Announcement System. After the passenger provided valid identification and proof of ownership, the watch was safely handed over following due verification. The passenger appreciated the honesty and prompt response of the railway staff.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Shri Uchit Singhal said that the e-auction system, implemented as per Railway Board directives, is fully transparent and efficient. He stated that the digital process has eliminated the role of middlemen and opened new opportunities for local traders and small entrepreneurs to directly connect with the Railways.
He further said that while the initiative would contribute to increasing non-fare railway revenue, the primary focus remains on improving passenger convenience and overall travel experience through modern facilities such as Emergency Medical Rooms and Digital Lockers at Katra Railway Station.
