Mumbai News: Western Railway Launches 'Porter On Call' Service At Vasai, Vapi, Valsad—A First In Indian Railways

Mumbai: Mumbai Central Division of Western Railway has launched a first-of-its-kind service – "Porter on Call" – allowing passengers to book porter services online for the first time in Indian Railways.

According to WR, the service has been initially rolled out at Vasai Road, Vapi, and Valsad stations, with the aim of ensuring a smooth and effortless travel experience for all passengers, particularly those carrying heavy luggage, traveling with families, or requiring special assistance.

"Passengers can book porters conveniently through the website www.gofoodieonline.com/online-coolie-booking, via call on 7229931116 / 9119222762, or by simply scanning a QR code available at designated points" said an official.

"The process involves selecting the boarding or de-boarding station, after which a confirmation message is sent via WhatsApp, providing the name and contact number of the assigned porter. This streamlined system brings instant porter availability, with the assurance of trained and verified personnel" further added official.

The initiative has been specifically designed to benefit senior citizens, persons with disabilities (Divyangjan), and patients, making travel more accessible and stress-free. Key benefits of this service include transparent and fixed pricing, a convenient and time-saving process, and assistance with both luggage and passenger needs. It also provides real-time feedback through WhatsApp.

It is to be noted that this initiative is only aimed at stations where there are no Licensed Sahayaks where long distance trains stop and passengers require porter facilities. Moreover under this initiative passengers will be charged either the current licensed sahayak rates of railways or below that rate.

"With a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction, the "Porter on Call" service represents a significant innovation in Indian Railways' customer service efforts. If the pilot initiative proves successful, it is expected to expand to more stations across the country in the near future" said a senior officer of WR.