In a major initiative aimed at boosting generation of revenue, Central Railway’s Nagpur Division has planned to set up Auto Hub at Ajni Goods Shed. For the same, a master plan aimed at development of amenities and upgradation of existing facilities is finalised, with estimating expenditure of Rs 30 crore. As the term indicates, the Ajni shed would cater to automobile sector of the region. Elaborating on the idea, Aman Mittal, Sr Divisional Commercial Manager, said that three companies - Maruti Suzuki, Kia and Hyundai had already evinced interest in dispatching their vehicles to Ajni. He said based on inputs from the local dealers, the division has earmarked the development of amenities that would enable proper unloading of the vehicles. Since the automobile sector in city is quite broad, the need for higher number of car units necessitated dispatch by railways which is quite hassle free. Mittal said the major advantage for division is existing two 700-metre rail lines, that means full length rake can be loaded or unloaded here. To facilitate the unloading of cars, permanent ramps would be constructed on either ends of the two railway lines, along with development and lighting of pathways.

 

The railway has also plan for putting in place two 10-tonne ramps that can be moved around the two lines as and when required. These big ramps are planned keeping in mind future requirement, in case heavy vehicle manufacturers also start using unloading facility at Ajni Goods Shed. As of now, temporary iron railing is attached to the bogey to unload the vehicles. The ramp would be quite an added advantage as cars can be unloaded with ease any time when the rake arrives. Further, cover over platform, a sort of shed would also be put in place on either lines as it would help in stacking of the vehicles brought here before their dispatch to respective dealers. About 5,000 sq mtr of car parking shed is planned at the Ajni Goods Shed, in the shape of a wave, added Mittal. The Ajni Goods Shed was erstwhile platform for operations of Container Corporation of Indian (CCI) before it shifted its base to MIHAN area and then to Borkhedi. The ready-made facilities were tapped by CR’s Nagpur Division earlier also, it was used for first dispatch of tractors by Mahindra & Mahindra, about a few years back.

 

Mittal further said as there is ample space at Ajni, the Commercial Branch has also planned to provide display area for the companies. The automobile companies can use the same for showcasing their new launches for their dealers. This would also bring in additional revenue through non-fare means for division. Apart from that the development plan also envisages putting in place car charging facility, given the thrust on electric cars these days. At the same time, with four-wheelers to be unloaded and stacked, security of the area is of utmost importance so that the vehicles are not damaged. For the same, railways is giving thrust on improving lighting arrangements, two high masts would be installed, and also increasing height of boundary wall with provision of fencing. Similarly, the existing approach road would be improved. Normally, the goods shed are under developed and hence at Ajni, the platform surface would be paved. The size of it is around 80, 000 sq mtrs, which is quite a big area.

 

However, the railways would take up this improvement work as per the requirement of that particular patch. Further, the Goods Shed will also have canteen facility, washroom, improved drainage, proper signages and boards. Also, seating arrangements would also be created so that workers can sit and relax. Similarly, there would also be water coolers and circulating area for labourers. The plan also include upgradation of two warehouses at the shed.