In a pioneering move within the East Coast Railway (ECoR) Zone, the Waltair Division has launched a state-of-the-art sleeping pod facility at the Visakhapatnam railway station, offering modern and affordable accommodation within the station premises.
Developed under the Non-Fare Revenue (NFR) model, this capsule hotel is designed to serve passengers travelling to the city for medical treatment, tourism, education, or business purposes. The initiative aims to enhance passenger comfort and address the chronic shortage of affordable lodging near the station.
Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra, who inaugurated the facility on Thursday, noted the persistent demand for accommodation in and around the station. “This facility, inspired by metropolitan models, ensures budget-friendly, hygienic, and secure stay options for travellers,” said an official from the Waltair Division on Friday.
Located at Gate No. 3 on Platform No. 1, the sleeping pod complex is accessible to everyone — not just train passengers — and does not require a platform ticket for entry. This public-access feature makes it a rare convenience in the Indian railway network.
The facility comprises 88 ergonomically designed pods: 73 single, 15 double, and 18 reserved for women. The women’s section includes private halls with dressing rooms and separate modern bathrooms, specifically designed to ensure safety, privacy, and added comfort.
A variety of amenities are on offer, including round-the-clock hot water, complimentary Wi-Fi, modern toilet facilities, spacious bathrooms, an in-house snack bar, and a dedicated travel desk to assist commuters and tourists alike.
Pricing is structured for short and extended stays, with single pods available at ₹200 for up to three hours and ₹400 for 24 hours. Double pods are priced at ₹300 and ₹600, respectively.
The response from early users has been overwhelmingly positive. Sirish, a pilgrim from Tirupati, said he chose the pods after visiting the Simhachalam Temple, describing them as a clean and affordable alternative to fully-booked hotels.
Prarthana, a frequent visitor to Visakhapatnam from Kolkata, commented, “The beds feel home-like.” She praised the facility’s luggage storage and overall comfort, highlighting how welcome it is for passengers arriving after long journeys.
Suresh, a traveller from Hyderabad, said he was pleasantly surprised by the service and urged authorities to expand such facilities across India. “Similar pods should be introduced nationwide to generate revenue for the railways and offer passengers safety and convenience,” he told PTI.
Officials confirmed that the facility will be monitored by CCTV cameras and follow standard railway safety protocols. Plans to introduce online booking are also under consideration, depending on future demand.
With this initiative, Visakhapatnam railway station becomes one of the first in the country to integrate a full-fledged capsule hotel within its premises, signalling a shift towards more modern, commuter-friendly infrastructure in India’s railway network.
