Patna: East Central Railway has proposed developing Jatdumri station in Patna as a dedicated parcel hub, alongside plans to expand parcel cargo services to key destinations including Kolkata, Guwahati, Tripura, Delhi and Amritsar.
The proposal was discussed on Monday during a meeting held at the office of the Principal Chief Commercial Manager (PCCM), East Central Railway, aimed at modernising and improving parcel transport operations across the zone.
Expansion of Parcel Network
The meeting was chaired by Amitabh Prabhakar, Principal Chief Commercial Manager, East Central Railway, and attended by commercial officers from headquarters and all five divisions, along with around 70 parcel leaseholders and stakeholders.
Officials said the discussions focused on improving efficiency, safety and customer experience in railway parcel services, while also increasing revenue generation through commercial optimisation.
Jatdumri Hub Proposal
A key highlight of the meeting was the proposal to upgrade Jatdumri station into a major parcel hub. Officials suggested that the station could serve as a central point for parcel operations connecting eastern, northeastern and northern corridors.
The plan includes strengthening parcel handling infrastructure and streamlining logistics for faster movement of goods.
PCET Service Expansion Plan
Participants also proposed operating Parcel Cargo Express Train (PCET) services from Jatdumri to Agartala via Chitpur (Kolkata) and Guwahati, with a further extension to Delhi and Amritsar.
Railway officials noted that such expansion could improve freight connectivity for traders and small businesses across multiple regions.
Demands From Parcel Stakeholders
During the meeting, parcel leaseholders raised demands for introducing parcel vans on several passenger trains, including the 13185/86 Ganga Sagar Express, 13165/66 Sitamarhi–Kolkata Express and 13257/58 Danapur–Anand Vihar Terminal Express.
They argued that dedicated parcel vans on these services would enhance convenience for traders and improve cargo movement efficiency.
Stakeholders also requested additional stoppages for selected trains and stronger security arrangements for parcels at stations.
Railway Response
PCCM Amitabh Prabhakar stated that expanding parcel services and improving customer facilities remain key priorities for the railways, along with efforts to boost revenue.
Officials added that all suggestions and demands raised during the meeting would be reviewed based on feasibility and operational requirements before implementation.
East Central Railway indicated that the proposed initiatives could significantly strengthen its parcel business and enhance commercial activity across the network.
