ATMs in running trains soon: Velu

Chennai, Dec 2: The Centre is keen on the proposal of installing Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in trains very soon, Minister of State for Railways R Velu said today. Inaugurating the e-ticketing ATM at Egmore Railway station here, he said after installing the ATMs at railway stations, the railways were planning to take this logical step.

The minister, however, said there were various issues regarding provision of adequate security for ATMs in trains.

Mr Velu also said the Railway Ministry had signed an MoU with seven nationalised banks for the installation of ATMs with e-ticketing facility at railway stations across the country.

''For the execution of this arrangement, railways provided adequate space for banks to install ATMs in the non-ticketed area,'' he said, adding ''these ATMs will have a computer system with internet ticketing kiosk, which will enable the user to generate e-tickets.'' So far, 1,392 ATM centres had been installed across India, he said.

''Passenger amenities is another focus area, he said, adding this would include lengthening of platforms to accommodate longer trains, better drinking water and lighting facilities and waiting rooms,'' Mr Velu said.

UNI