The Mumbai division of Central Railway will quickly introduce sleeping pods, also called pod resort, on the scenic hill station of Matheran. This initiative is a part of the New Modern Non-Fare Income Earnings Scheme (NINFRIS) of the Indian Railways.
“This follows the success of the sleeping pods at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai, which has garnered widespread acceptance amongst passengers,” mentioned an official. Matheran, famend because the closest and most sought-after vacationer vacation spot for residents of Mumbai and the encompassing areas, is serviced by the historic Neral-Matheran Toy Prepare.
In line with Central Railway, a contract for the event and operation of the pod resort has been awarded via an e-auction. The profitable bidder secured the contract for an annual quantity of Rs 8.19 lakh. The entire contract interval spans 10 years, with a provision for a ten per cent annual escalation in license charges after the completion of the primary three years of the contract. Spanning a beneficiant complete space of 758.77 sq mt, the mission goals to additional elevate the tourism expertise in Matheran.
“The pod resort at Matheran will characteristic single pods, double pods and household pods, offering a variety of lodging choices to cater to the various wants of vacationers. These air-conditioned pods are designed to supply most consolation and privateness, outfitted with fashionable facilities corresponding to cellular charging amenities, locker room companies, hearth alarms, intercom programs, deluxe bathroom and toilet amenities, amongst others. Reserving choices for the pod resort are versatile, with vacationers in a position to reserve pods via each bodily means on the reception and on-line by way of a devoted cellular app,” mentioned an official.
He mentioned, “Introduction of sleeping pods won’t solely improve the general expertise for vacationers but additionally contribute considerably to the native economic system by selling tourism and offering employment alternatives.”