Jammu, May 16: Northern Railway has declared the results of the e-auction process for several commercial service packages across key railway stations in Jammu Division, aiming to improve passenger amenities and generate additional non-fare revenue.
According to railway authorities, the digital e-auction system has been introduced to ensure transparency and provide equal opportunities to local traders and entrepreneurs for operating services at railway stations.
Among the major developments, the contract for the Rear SLR parcel service in Train No. 13152 has been allotted. Officials said the initiative is expected to facilitate faster and safer transportation of goods and consignments for traders and businesses, especially benefiting shopkeepers dealing with markets in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Punjab.
To improve passenger safety and convenience, an Emergency Medical Room will be established at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station. The facility will provide immediate medical assistance and first aid to pilgrims and passengers in emergencies.
In another passenger-friendly initiative, contracts have also been awarded for Digital Locker Facilities at Katra Railway Station. The self-service kiosk system will allow passengers to safely store and retrieve luggage without human assistance.
Railway officials said the facility would particularly help pilgrims arriving during late-night or early-morning hours, enabling them to proceed directly for the Bhawan pilgrimage without carrying heavy luggage.
The contract for systematic vehicle parking management at Budgam Railway Station has also been awarded. Authorities said the move would help streamline traffic movement and reduce congestion outside the station premises through separate lanes for taxis, autos and private vehicles.
According to the Railway Administration, the initiatives are aimed at improving railway revenue as well as enhancing passenger experience through modern digital technology and better service management.
Highlighting passenger-centric services, officials also referred to an incident on May 15 in which ticket checking staff of Jammu Division returned a lost watch to a passenger travelling on the Vande Bharat Express operating between Jammu and Srinagar.
The watch had reportedly been left in the washroom of Coach E-1. After repeated announcements by Train Superintendent R K Meena, the passenger identified the item and recovered it following verification.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Jammu Uchit Singhal said the e-auction system, implemented under Railway Board directives, has eliminated middlemen and opened direct opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
He added that while the initiative would help increase non-fare railway revenue, the primary objective remains improving passenger convenience and travel experience through modern facilities and efficient services.
