Under fire, Western Railways withdraws massage services proposal on trains

The move was criticised by BJP’s Indore MP Shankar Lalwani. He wrote to Union minister Piyush Goyal, saying that it is against Indian culture to offer such services in the presence of women.

The Indian Railways has withdrawn its proposal to provide massage services to passengers on board trains.

Zones and divisions have been asked to come out with new and innovative ideas to generate non-fare revenue for the railways. (HT Photo)

Western Railways had last week proposed to provide head, neck and foot massages to the passengers of trains originating from Indore. However, senior railway officials did not approve of the idea. Indore MP Shankar Lalwani had even written to Union minister Piyush Goyal, saying that offering such services in the presence of women was against the Indian culture.

“Proposal for introduction of head and/or foot massage services to be provided in the trains originating from Indore was initiated by Ratlam Division of Western Railways. As soon as this proposal came to the notice of higher authorities of Western Railways, it has been decided to withdraw this proposal of starting massage services in trains,” stated a press release issued by the Western railway. The facility was to be made available on 39 trains departing from Indore.

“However, other suggestions regarding the necessary passenger amenities have been expressed by various representatives. Western Railway respects the suggestions given by its consumers and their appropriate suggestions are also implemented from time to time. Western Railways also appreciates the positive suggestions of public representatives, railway consumers, and public at large,” the release stated.