The Western Railway has launched a convenient new service allowing passengers to book porters, or coolies, online through the Online Coolie (Sahayak) Booking Service on the Go Foodie Online website. Initially rolled out at Valsad station, the service will soon be available at Vasai and Vapi stations as well. The initiative is especially aimed at stations where no licensed sahayaks (porters) are currently available, ensuring a hassle-free experience for passengers carrying heavy luggage.
WR’s ‘Porter on Call’ Service Brings Fixed-Rate, Real-Time Luggage Assistance to Passengers
According to Western Railway (WR) officials, the new “Porter on Call” system is designed to save time and eliminate the need for bargaining with porters. The charges are capped at standard sahayak rates, and in some cases may even be lower. Bookings can be made via the website www.gofoodieonline.com/online-coolie-booking, by calling 7229931116 or 9119222762, or by scanning a QR code available at the station. Once a booking is confirmed, passengers receive the porter’s name and contact details via WhatsApp.
The system also tracks train locations in real-time. If a train is delayed, the assigned porter is automatically informed, ensuring availability is not affected. The service is expected to be a major help to senior citizens, Divyangjan (differently-abled passengers), and patients, especially for those traveling on long-distance trains.
WR’s Porter Service Gets Feedback System to Ensure Quality
An external agency has been contracted to supply porters on demand, and the WR has emphasized the importance of maintaining service quality. To that end, a WhatsApp-based feedback system is also in place, allowing passengers to share their experience and raise concerns if any. Subhash Gupta, president of Rail Yatri Parishad, welcomed the move but stressed that the railways must monitor service quality to ensure it meets expectations.
Summary:
Western Railway’s new “Porter on Call” service lets passengers pre-book porters online at fixed rates via Go Foodie Online. Initially available at Valsad, it will expand to Vasai and Vapi. Real-time train tracking and WhatsApp feedback ensure efficiency and quality, aiding seniors, patients, and differently-abled travellers.
