Money on the go

SW Railways plans to install ATMs on all interstate trains

Soon, you'll be able to withdraw money from the ATM on a moving train.

Punjab National Bank and South Western Railways are planning to install automated teller machinesu00a0 (ATMs) on trains.



According to sources, Karnataka Express was the first train to have ATM-enabled bogies. The success story will now be replicated on the remaining interstate trains.

Of course, there are the usual security concerns. ATMs on trains could invite robbers right in and endanger passengers' lives. Also, what if the satellite link is broken? And what happens if the machine swallows the card?
These are some of the problems the authorities are trying to address.

K H Muniyappa, minister of state for railways, who wants to bring a new look to South Western Railways, is already discussing the move with officials of Punjab National Bank.

Satish Karla, divisional manager of Punjab National Bank, Bangalore, said work was already on. "We want the benefits of banking to be available to the last man. The railway officials will decide which trains are to have the facility. And soon, we will start installing them," he said.

Divisional railway manager Akhil Agarwal said, once the logistics were in place, they would take it further. "We are taking great care with the planning - where to install, where to replenish it with money and other such criteria. It will take time because of the security and extra rules to withdraw money," he said.