Restaurant-on-wheels now at Pune railway station

Pune : The Rail Coach Restaurant is a pioneering endeavour by the Indian Railways that has garnered acclaim from both travellers and the general public across numerous states.

The Rail coach restaurant on Pune Division commenced operations on 22.11.2023, with the guidance of Divisional Railway Manager Indu Dubey, Additional Divisional Railway Manager Brijeshkumar Singh, and under the leadership of Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Dr. Milind Hirawe at Pune station.

The inaugural function from the Railway was graced by Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Dr. Milind Hirwe, Divisional Commercial Manager & Public Relations Officer Dr. Ramdas Bhise, and other Railway Officials. Director of Haldirams Neeraj Agarwal, and Deputy Manager, Haldirams Amol Bhagat performed the ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by the flag wave to start the service.

The rail coach restaurant, located near Pune Divisional Railway Manager office, has been constructed on a 100 square meter area alongside Tadiwala road circulating area at Pune Railway Station.

OAM Industries India Pvt. Ltd. (Haldirams) will be in charge of managing and operating the Restaurant on Wheels (ROW). This mobile restaurant will provide 24/7 service of delicious food with the highest quality to meet the needs of all customers. The air-conditioned dining coach will offer a unique fine-dining experience to its guests, with a seating capacity of 40 patrons across 10 tables. The interior of the restaurant has been thoughtfully decorated to provide a healthy and enjoyable dining experience for both passengers and the public.

The takeout counter is designed to assist passengers in swiftly collecting their orders and ensuring they board their train punctually. This service is also accessible through numerous online food ordering applications. It provides an extensive selection of items such as Raj Kachori, Chola Bhatura, Pau Bhaji, Veg Thali and combo, South Indian, North Indian, Pack Sweets and Numkeens, Chaats, Beverages, Softy, traditional Indian Sweets, and more.

The Railways will receive an impressive annual revenue of Rs 60,00,000/- through this contract, while also offering food services to the passengers and public of Pune city. Currently, the restaurant on wheels at Chinchwad station in Pune division is already serving the people. Additionally, similar restaurants on wheels are planned for Akurdi, Baramati, and Miraj stations, and the installation process has already commenced.

Ramdas Bhise, Central Railway, PRO, added, “Coach Restaurant is operated by Haldirams and will offer hygienic and delicious cuisine to not only passengers but also the general public. This unique establishment is set to become a popular destination for the youths in the vicinity, as it will provide round-the-clock service.”

Madhupriya Dhanwate