Odisha’s First Rail Coach Restaurant Opens At Rayagada Railway Station

Rayagada: A unique rail coach restaurant (RCR) has been opened in Odisha’s Rayagada railway station in a bid to offer innovative experiences to train passengers and generate additional revenue.

Odisha Law Minister Jagannath Saraka inaugurated the restaurant on Tuesday, in the presence of Rayagada MLA Makaranda Muduli, sources said.

This facility is set up as part of the railway’s efforts to provide an innovative experience to train passengers and generate non-fare revenue.

This project was awarded to a private firm through an open tender with payment of a license fee, officials said.

Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Railway Manager Saurabh Prasad said that this initiative by the Waltair division of East Coast Railways (EcoR) aims to enhance the passenger experience and generate additional revenue by utilising railway infrastructure creatively.

It will not only provide a memorable experience to the rail users but will also improve the ambience of the railway station in a self-sustaining revenue-generating model, he added.

An unserviceable AC coach has been converted into the restaurant with interior modifications to meet the requirements of both train passengers and the general public. It occupies an area of 110 square metres.

The restaurant can accommodate up to 42 people at a time. It offers excellent interior air conditioning; comfortable luxury sofa chairs for seating, and serves snacks and meals round the clock. The restaurant can also be reserved for special events like birthdays and kitty parties, providing a unique and convenient venue for gatherings. It offers both dine in and takeaway facility to the customers.