Jammu: In a significant move to boost non-fare revenue and enhance passenger amenities, Northern Railway has allotted multipurpose stalls (MPS) across six railway stations in Jammu and Kashmir, along with the Second Luggage Rake (SLR) of a train, through a transparent e-auction process, officials said on Friday.
According to officials, the multipurpose stalls have been allotted for a period of five years at Banihal, Anantnag, Srinagar, Sangaldan, Budgam, and Baramulla railway stations. The initiative is expected to generate a total revenue of ₹79.43 lakh for Indian Railways.
The stalls will provide a wide range of passenger essentials, including medicines, books, newspapers, cosmetics, toys, and daily-use items.
“This is the first time in the Jammu Division that multipurpose stalls have been allotted through an e-auction process. It ensures transparency, maximises revenue, and promotes local employment,” said Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division.
He added, “Enhancing non-fare revenue while creating local employment aligns with our twin goals of cultural integration and financial sustainability. These stalls will enrich the passenger experience and serve as a model for other stations.”
Officials further informed that the SLR of train number 12414 has also been allotted through the same e-auction process for a total amount of ₹1.08 crore for three years — a “major and historic achievement” for the division.
Singhal noted that extensive marketing efforts by the division played a key role in the successful completion of the auction.
Railway officials said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to monetise station spaces, promote regional art and culture, encourage entrepreneurship, and improve passenger services through innovative, revenue-generating models.
