Hazaribagh, August 29, 2026: Train passengers travelling through Koderma Junction and Dhanbad Junction will soon have easier access to medicines during their journey, with 24-hour medicine outlets planned at both stations from September 19.
The outlets, to be operated under the Dawa Dost initiative, are expected to stock both generic and branded medicines. The facility will allow passengers who fall ill during a journey to purchase necessary medicines without leaving the station premises.
Agency selected to operate outlets for five years
As part of the initiative, the Dawa Dost outlets at both stations will operate around the clock.
An agency has been selected to run the outlets for five years. The facility is expected to be particularly useful for passengers facing sudden health problems while travelling, including during night hours.
Outlet locations identified at Koderma Junction
The location for the medicine outlet at Koderma Junction has been identified.
One proposed location is the vacant space between the general ticket counter and Gate No. 2. Arrangements are also being made for an outlet near Platform No. 1, close to the ramp bridge.
The facility will not be restricted to railway passengers. Local residents will also be able to purchase medicines from the outlet, according to the information provided.
Digital payment facility available
Passengers and other customers will also be able to make payments through digital modes, reducing the need to carry cash while travelling.
Staff to wear uniforms and carry ID cards
Railway authorities have prescribed identification requirements for employees working at the outlets.
Staff posted at the counters will be required to carry ID cards and work in the prescribed uniform. This will help passengers identify authorised personnel operating the medicine outlets.
Facility expected to help passengers and local residents
Koderma and Dhanbad are important stations on the Howrah-New Delhi railway route, and round-the-clock access to medicines could be particularly useful for passengers who fall ill during journeys or arrive at the stations late at night.
Residents living around the stations are also expected to benefit from the availability of medicines at the outlets.
The source material states that the outlets are expected to begin operations from September 19, but does not specify whether the launch date applies simultaneously to both stations.
