Patna: Indian Railways has announced a new policy that will see passengers charged Rs 10 per hour for the use of air-conditioned waiting rooms at selected stations, as part of a shift towards privatised station management. The change is set to come into effect from July 15, marks a notable departure from the previously free service.
Under the new system, passengers arriving early to board their trains will be required to pay the fee to the private agency managing the facility, in a move aimed at improving station amenities through private sector involvement. According to officials, this fee will apply only to air-conditioned waiting halls and is intended to maintain upgraded passenger services.
The policy is already in operation in Kolkata, Rampurhat and the Howrah railway division, and is now being extended to three additional stations in Bihar: Bhagalpur, Sultanganj and Jamalpur, all part of the Malda Railway Division.
Speaking to local media, Anjan, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of the Malda Division, confirmed the rollout and highlighted enhancements to passenger amenities. “Waiting halls at these stations have been aesthetically renovated. Each will also feature a small canteen to improve the overall passenger experience,” he said.
