Nagpur: In a major relief for passengers arriving at Nagpur railway station amid the intense heatwave, app-based cab aggregator services will commence operations from within the railway station premises starting Friday. This decisive move by the Nagpur division of Central Railway effectively dismantles the long-standing dominance of the auto-rickshaw mafia, paving the way for more organized, transparent, and hassle-free last-mile connectivity.
Dedicated Pick-Up and Drop Zone
The dedicated pick-up and drop zone for app-based cabs, located outside Platform 1, can accommodate up to five vehicles simultaneously. Infrastructure work, including proper signage, markings, and parking facilities, has been fully completed.
Contract and Clearances
A fresh three-year contract (January 3, 2026, to January 2, 2029) awarded to an IT firm has cleared all procedural stages. The operator has obtained necessary clearances from the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) following inspections, removing the final obstacles that had postponed the launch.
End of Auto-Rickshaw Mafia
For decades, the auto-rickshaw mafia exercised unchecked control over passenger transport at this key Vidarbha junction. Pre-paid auto operators and unauthorized drivers frequently blocked entrances near Platforms 1 and 8, demanded exorbitant fares, and even intimidated and assaulted cab drivers who dared to pick up passengers from the station premises. This cartel-like operation caused severe traffic snarls and led to the collapse of earlier cab-aggregator contracts. Commuters, particularly senior citizens, women, families with luggage, and differently abled passengers, were forced to walk long distances—often up to 300 meters—to Jaistambh Chowk or other external points like Tekdi Ganpati temple, enduring extreme weather conditions.
Railway's Firm Action
Railway authorities have now drawn a firm boundary. Sources stated that the Railway Protection Force (RPF) conducted sustained drives against illegal autorickshaws, removed the contentious pre-paid auto booth near the western gate, and implemented strict enforcement against unauthorized parking and soliciting inside station limits. A senior railway official told TOI, "Passenger convenience is our top priority. We have taken concrete steps to eliminate vested interests and ensure safe, reliable transport options right from the platforms."
Benefits for Passengers
The new setup promises fixed fares, GPS-tracked rides, and seamless app-based bookings. Drop services are expected to be free or carry only a nominal charge, while pick-ups may include a small facilitation fee. Residents and frequent travelers have hailed the development. A frequent traveler from Mumbai to Nagpur said, "This change is long overdue. No more arguments with auto drivers or struggling with bags in the sun."
Broader Impact
Transport analysts believe the initiative will ease congestion on approach roads and bolster Nagpur's position as a growing commercial and medical hub. This step forms part of Central Railway's ongoing station redevelopment and modernization efforts. Security measures will be strengthened to prevent backlash from the auto mafia.
