Mumbai Rail Passengers to Get Wi-Fi-Enabled Digital Lounges
In a move to enhance passenger convenience and modernise railway infrastructure, Western Railway is set to launch co-working digital lounges at select stations and terminals. Inspired by similar facilities in European railway hubs, these lounges will cater to office-goers, offering a productive space to work while waiting for trains.
The initiative, part of the Non-Fare Revenue (NFR) scheme, aims to provide an air-conditioned office-like environment at major terminus stations. These lounges will be equipped with Wi-Fi-enabled tables, charging points for laptops and mobile devices, and provisions for tea and coffee. Each lounge will accommodate up to 40 individuals, ensuring a comfortable and distraction-free workspace. According to a senior Western Railway official, ₹1,000 crores has been allocated for passenger convenience upgrades in 2025, including the development of these digital lounges. The proposal will soon be submitted to the Railway Board for approval.
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has already begun implementing deluxe lounges at select stations, and Western Railway’s digital lounge concept aligns with this broader effort to elevate commuter experiences. These lounges not only offer office-like facilities but also help generate revenue under the NFR model. The NFR model allows railway operators to diversify income sources through advertising, rentals, and other avenues beyond ticket fares. Digital lounges are expected to contribute significantly to this model while enhancing the overall quality of public transport infrastructure. Western Railway is currently in the process of identifying suitable stations for the initiative. Once implemented, the digital lounges are anticipated to be a game-changer for commuters who prefer to work while travelling, combining convenience with productivity.
