Patna: The Sonpur Division of Indian Railways has allocated commercial spaces, including a rail coach restaurant and non-fare revenue (NFR) stalls, at Shahpur Patori and Dalsingsarai stations in Bihar, in a move expected to generate an additional annual revenue of Rs 8,44,566.
Officials said the initiative, finalised through e-auction, is part of a broader effort to strengthen non-fare earnings while improving passenger amenities at smaller stations.
Rail Coach Restaurant Plan
A rail coach restaurant will be set up at Shahpur Patori station under a five-year allocation. Railway officials said this will be the fifth such facility in the Sonpur Division, marking the highest number of rail coach restaurants in the East Central Railway zone.
The project involves repurposing decommissioned railway coaches into fully functional dining spaces equipped with modern facilities.
Officials said the concept is designed to offer passengers and local residents a distinctive dining experience while making better use of retired railway assets.
Revenue-Generating Allocations
Alongside the restaurant project, NFR stalls outside Shahpur Patori and Dalsingsarai stations have been allocated for a three-year term.
According to railway officials, the combined allocations will strengthen the division’s non-fare revenue stream, adding over Rs 8.44 lakh annually.
Both stations fall under the NSG-5 category, typically associated with lower passenger traffic, but officials said the commercial development reflects a shift towards optimising underutilised railway spaces.
Passenger Amenities and Local Impact
Railway authorities said the rail coach restaurant scheme is aimed at improving passenger convenience while also creating commercial activity around station premises.
Officials added that such initiatives are expected to generate local employment opportunities and increase footfall at smaller stations by offering food and retail services.
Repurposing Railway Assets
Under the initiative, old and unserviceable coaches will be refurbished and converted into themed restaurants with upgraded interiors.
Railway officials said similar projects may be expanded in other divisions in the future as part of efforts to maximise asset utilisation and improve non-fare revenue generation.
