• Source:JND
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Mumbai News: Commuters using Western Railway (WR) trains may soon have the opportunity to work while waiting for their local trains. The railway is developing a plan to establish co-working office spaces on elevated decks at various stations, inspired by similar setups in European railway stations.

Features Of Digital Lounges

According to a Hindustan Times report, these shared facilities, called ‘Digital Lounges,’ will be air-conditioned and designed within a spacious quadrilateral area. The lounges will feature long tables, multiple chairs, electric plug points for charging laptops and phones, and mini cubicles for added privacy.

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The railways aim to create 147 acres of usable air space within the city. The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation is investing Rs 947 crore to construct elevated decks at 17 stations as part of its Station Improvement Project. WR intends to utilise some of these large decks to provide co-working spaces, enhancing convenience for passengers.

Alleviating Platform Congestion

The elevated decks will also play a vital role in reducing congestion on the platforms below, as services such as food stalls, toilets and other amenities will be relocated to these upper levels.

Mumbai: Potential Stations For Digital Lounges

WR officials have started identifying potential stations for the Digital Lounges. Priority will be given to stations located near prominent office and commercial areas that attract a high volume of daily office-goers. Key locations under consideration include Andheri, Goregaon, Borivali, Bandra Terminus and Mumbai Central.

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The Hindustan Times report quoted a senior WR official explaining, "We aim to replicate the concept seen at railway stations in Europe, where designated areas allow passengers to work while waiting for their trains. We currently have an Executive Lounge for passengers to rest, and the Digital Lounge will further enhance the overall passenger experience."