Mumbai: After the success of its ‘Restaurant on Wheels’ at Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and Dadar, the Mumbai Division of Central Railway is now gearing up to introduce the unique dining experience at Byculla station. "If all goes according to plan, the new facility is expected to be operational within the next three to four months" said an official.
Tender Process Underway, Final Bidder to be Selected by August 13
According to a senior Central Railway official, the tender process for operating the restaurant has already been initiated. The final bidder will be selected on August 13, after which the groundwork for the project will begin.
Byculla Set to Get Unique Dining Experience in Repurposed Railway Coach
“The plan is to install an old railway coach outside platform number 4 on the east side of Byculla station,” the official said. “Once the tender is finalized, Central Railway will lay a short stretch of track to place the coach. The selected party will then take over the coach to develop it into a fully functional restaurant, including its interior decoration and seating arrangements.”
The entire process — from laying the tracks to the completion of the restaurant setup — is expected to take around three months.
Successful ‘Restaurant on Wheels’ Facilities Already Operating at LTT and Dadar
Currently, Central Railway operates ‘Restaurant on Wheels’ facilities at both LTT and Dadar, which have received positive responses from commuters and food enthusiasts alike. A similar facility was earlier launched at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and quickly gained popularity. However, it was discontinued due to the commencement of the CSMT redevelopment project.
The upcoming Byculla outlet is expected to cater not only to passengers but also to local residents, offering a unique dining experience inside a repurposed train coach.
A senior official has confirmed the development and said the location for the upcoming ‘Restaurant on Wheels’ has already been finalized outside platform number four, on the east side of Byculla station.
Old Coaches Refurbished with Modern Interiors, Air Conditioning, and Ambient Lighting
The Indian Railways has introduced the innovative concept of a ‘Restaurant on Wheels’ as part of its strategy to repurpose old railway coaches and create a unique dining experience. This initiative aims to boost non-fare revenue by transforming decommissioned coaches into modern, café-style restaurants. These refurbished coaches feature contemporary interiors, ambient lighting, air conditioning, and themed décor to provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
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Strategically positioned near railway stations, these restaurants offer a diverse range of cuisines and are accessible to both railway passengers and the general public. The implementation of this concept at locations such as LTT and Dadar has not only contributed additional revenue to the Railways but has also emerged as a popular social hub.