Mumbai Local Train Service: Western Railway Earns Record Rs 164 Crore Through Non-Fare Revenue

In the 19 months from April 2023 to October 2024, Western Railway has earned a total of Rs 164 crore 36 lakh from various non-fare revenue (NFR) sources, according to the Lokmat report. This includes revenue from ticket sales, hoardings, advertisements, restaurant operations, and shop rents, among other areas.

Out of this, the department's share amounts to Rs 115 crore 69 lakh. Furthermore, the Railways exceeded their target by Rs 1 crore 31 lakh in the 2023-2024 financial year, a trend they aim to continue in the current financial year.

The revenue comes from several innovative measures designed to utilise railway assets efficiently. These include revenue from hoardings placed outside stations, advertisements on local and express trains, digital displays at stations, restaurants on wheels, and shops situated on railway platforms. Among these, the seven air-conditioned (AC) local trains contributed the highest revenue, bringing in Rs 17.94 crore annually. In contrast, 74 non-AC local trains generated Rs 54.13 crore from indoor and outdoor advertising.

Experts suggest in Lokmat that offering station spaces to a single contractor could further boost revenue, as it would streamline the process and maximise usage. There is also growing support for focusing on digital advertising, which is seen as an area with great potential for growth.

Filming at stations has also proven to be a lucrative avenue. Over the years, Western Railway has granted permission for filming at various locations, including stations and on local trains, generating significant additional revenue.

"Western Railway is making effective use of its assets to increase revenue through NFR. We are also planning to implement new schemes in the future to further enhance our earnings," said Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway in the report.

With these continued efforts, Western Railway is set to maximise its revenue potential and support the growth of the Indian Railways.