Mumbai Local Train Services: Western Railway To Introduce Co-Working Spaces At These Stations Soon

Office-goers who travel on Western Railway trains will soon have the option to work at railway stations while waiting for their trains, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report. Western Railway (WR) is planning to introduce co-working spaces on elevated decks at select stations and terminuses, inspired by similar facilities at European railway stations.

These co-working areas, called "Digital Lounges," will be air-conditioned and equipped with modern amenities. The spaces will feature large quadrilateral areas with long or multiple tables, chairs, and electric plug points for charging laptops and phones. Mini cubicles will also be available for added privacy.

The initiative is part of the Station Improvement Project, which includes the construction of elevated decks at 17 stations by the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation at a cost of Rs 947 crore. These elevated decks aim to decongest platforms by relocating food stalls, toilets, and other amenities.

WR officials have started identifying stations for these lounges, prioritising locations with high footfall from office-goers and nearby commercial areas. Likely candidates include Andheri, Goregaon, Borivali, Bandra Terminus, and Mumbai Central.

"We are replicating the idea from European railway stations where passengers have dedicated spaces to work while waiting for trains. With the existing Executive Lounge for rest, the Digital Lounge will further enhance the passenger experience," said a senior WR official as per the report.

The project will follow a non-fare revenue model, with private operators managing the co-working spaces. Passengers will be charged on an hourly basis for using the lounges. Each lounge will accommodate 20 to 50 people and will provide refreshments like hot or cold drinks and snacks.

According to Colliers India, the demand for flexible office spaces surged in 2024, with 4.7 million square feet leased. Flex spaces accounted for 24 per cent of Grade A office space uptake in the year's final quarter, driven by sectors such as technology, banking, and manufacturing. WR's Digital Lounge initiative aligns with this growing trend, offering passengers a convenient place to work while travelling.