Pet Travel Trend Soars at Pune Railway Station, Cats and Dogs Lead the Way
Pune, 30th March 2024: A burgeoning trend is observed as animals accompany passengers on railway journeys, garnering positive responses. Last year witnessed the transportation of approximately six thousand pets from Pune railway station. This year, the trend continues with around half a thousand animals transported during the months of January and February, with dogs leading the pack followed by cats.
Passengers often opt to travel with their beloved pets via train, necessitating prior registration at the station two hours before departure. Pets are primarily transported in specially designated luggage containers equipped with cages for safe and secure transport. Alternatively, passengers can opt for air-conditioned first-class coach travel with their pets, albeit at a higher cost, though most prefer the convenience and affordability of the luggage containers.
In 2023, Pune railway station facilitated the transportation of 5,920 pets, comprising 3,409 dogs, 644 cats, 514 goats, and 1,353 chickens, generating revenue of Rs 10 lakh 91 thousand for the railways. This year, during January and February alone, 1,239 pets were transported, including 706 dogs, 108 cats, 336 chickens, and 89 goats, resulting in an income of Rs 1 lakh 83 thousand for the railway authorities.
Notably, registration for pet transportation cannot be conducted online and requires physical registration at the railway station. During check-in, passengers must present their pet’s health certificate and a veterinary doctor’s certificate for registration. Transport charges vary based on factors such as weight, distance, and vehicle type, with the cost of transporting a dog from Pune to Delhi amounting to approximately Rs 800.
Uday Tupe, Chief Parcel Inspector at Pune Railway Station, emphasized the necessity for passengers to register at the Parcel Department two hours prior to train departure for pet transportation. Following registration, pets are accommodated in specially designated cages within the baggage compartment, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the journey.
