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In a significant step towards modernizing passenger amenities, Madhya Pradesh’s first pod retiring room facility was inaugurated at the Bhopal railway station on Saturday. Located on platform number 6, this innovative facility features 78 state-of-the-art pods designed to provide safe, comfortable, and private resting spaces for travelers.
The pod facility includes 20 family pods, 40 multi-bed pods for men, and 18 for women. Each pod is equipped with essential amenities such as a sleeping area, luggage storage, charging points, Wi-Fi, a TV for entertainment, air-conditioning, and a mirror. Separate toilets for men and women, CCTV surveillance, locker rooms, and fire safety systems have also been installed to ensure passenger convenience and security.
The pods can be booked both online through the IRCTC website and offline at the station. A valid PNR number is required for booking. Pricing starts at INR 200 for a small pod for three hours, while family pods are available at INR 400 for the same duration. Rates vary depending on the duration and type of pod selected.
BJP MP Alok Sharma inaugurated the facility in the presence of Bhopal Divisional Railway Manager Devashish Tripathi. According to officials, this is the first pod facility in the West Central Railway zone, which includes the Bhopal, Jabalpur, and Kota divisions.
Saurabh Kataria, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Bhopal Division, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “This facility has been introduced keeping in mind the needs of the 70,000 passengers who travel through Bhopal railway station every day.”
This marks India’s second pod retiring room facility after the first one was launched at Mumbai Central Railway Station in 2021. Operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the pod system offers a modern and affordable alternative for passengers needing rest during transit or waiting for connecting trains.