Guwahati: Passenger facilities at Guwahati Railway Station were upgraded on Monday, February 9, with the inauguration of new amenities including sleeping pods, an air-conditioned lounge, and a multi-cuisine restaurant. The launch took place alongside the virtual flag-off of the Sairang–Silchar Express by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The event in Guwahati was attended by Chetan Kumar Srivastava, General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway, along with other senior officials.
Guwahati Railway Station has introduced eight fully air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-enabled sleeping pods, an AC lounge, luggage and dressing rooms, and a new restaurant. The facilities were inaugurated on February 9 to enhance passenger comfort at one of the Northeast’s busiest railway hubs.
What’s New at the Station
The newly added facilities include:
- 8 fully air-conditioned sleeping pods
- Wi-Fi-enabled private cabins
- Family pods and couple pods
- AC lounge
- Luggage room
- Dressing room
- Griham multi-cuisine restaurant
The sleeping pods are designed to provide short-stay, private resting spaces for passengers waiting for connecting trains or long departures. Railway officials said the pods are priced to remain affordable while maintaining privacy and comfort.
Boost for Passenger Experience in Guwahati
As the busiest railway station in Assam and a major transit point for the Northeast, Guwahati handles thousands of passengers daily, including long-distance travellers from Upper Assam, the Barak Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and beyond.
Officials said the upgrades are part of efforts to modernise infrastructure and align Guwahati with passenger amenities available at major railway stations across India.
Link to Regional Connectivity
The inauguration coincided with the launch of the Sairang–Silchar Express, further strengthening rail connectivity between Assam and Mizoram. Speaking to the media, NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Srivastava said the new train service would benefit trade and passenger movement in the Barak Valley and neighbouring states.
He added that the enhanced station facilities would improve passenger comfort, particularly for those undertaking long journeys through Guwahati.
Why It Matters
With rising passenger footfall and increased train services during festive and peak travel seasons, improved amenities are expected to reduce congestion in waiting areas and provide structured resting options.
The introduction of private sleeping pods is particularly significant for solo travellers, families, and passengers arriving during late-night or early-morning hours.
What Happens Next
Railway authorities indicated that more passenger-friendly upgrades may follow as part of station modernisation plans. Passengers can inquire at the station or through official railway channels for booking details and tariffs for the sleeping pods and lounge facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sleeping pods have been introduced at Guwahati Railway Station?
Eight fully air-conditioned and Wi-Fi-enabled sleeping pods have been installed.
Are there family-friendly options available?
Yes, some pods are designated as family pods, while others cater to couples or individual travellers.
What other facilities were inaugurated?
An AC lounge, luggage room, dressing room, and Griham multi-cuisine restaurant were also introduced.
When were the new facilities inaugurated?
The amenities were inaugurated on February 9.
