Mumbai Central has taken a decisive step towards reimagining public transport infrastructure with the launch of India’s first railway station coworking facility, signalling how transit spaces are evolving beyond conventional waiting halls. The initiative, introduced by Western Railway, reflects a broader push to monetise station assets while responding to changing passenger behaviour in an increasingly mobile and digital economy.
The newly opened coworking and digital lounge is located near the main concourse of Mumbai Central Terminus and spans approximately 1,700 square feet across two air-conditioned levels. Designed as a functional workspace rather than a traditional waiting area, the facility offers 58 seats equipped with desks, cushioned chairs and individual charging points. Access is priced at Rs 200 for the first hour, with incremental charges thereafter, positioning it as a short-stay alternative to hotels or cafés for travellers with extended layovers. Railway officials say the concept is aimed primarily at passengers using premium long-distance services, including Vande Bharat and Rajdhani trains, who often arrive early or have gaps between connections. “Many travellers today need a quiet, connected environment to work, attend virtual meetings or simply recharge devices,” a railway official said, adding that such amenities are commonplace at international transport hubs but relatively new in India’s rail network.
The upper level of the lounge offers reclining seats for passengers seeking rest, while refreshments are included within the entry fee. Full meals and snacks are available separately. While pricing is higher than typical station food outlets, officials argue the service targets a different user segment and offers comfort and privacy rarely available within busy terminals. From a business perspective, the project forms part of the railways’ wider non-fare revenue strategy. The space has been leased to a private operator for five years, generating an estimated Rs 3.2 crore in revenue. Industry experts note that railway station coworking could become a scalable model if demand proves sustainable, particularly in cities with high commuter footfall and strong white-collar employment bases. Urban planners view the initiative as a small but meaningful shift in how public infrastructure can support productivity without expanding the city’s physical footprint. By encouraging shared use of existing assets, such models align with low-carbon urban development principles while improving passenger experience. “The challenge will be ensuring inclusivity and pricing balance so these spaces do not remain exclusive,” an urban mobility expert noted.
Encouraged by early interest, Western Railway is reportedly exploring similar lounges at suburban stations such as Andheri and Borivali, particularly on elevated decks that connect platforms. If successful, Mumbai Central’s railway station coworking experiment could influence how Indian cities integrate work, travel and everyday life within shared public spaces.
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