Nagpur, India: Reliable sources indicate that howrah operators are exploiting the large crowds in trains to discreetly transfer substantial sums of money, amounting to crores of rupees.

Notably, officials at railway stations and in surrounding areas are largely unaware of this activity. The weakened police informant network allows howrah operators to conduct their operations without obstruction, particularly in Nagpur, which is the largest hub for such activities.

The howrah center in Central India facilitates the daily transfer of howrah cash across the country through its extensive network, and many seasoned professionals in investigative agencies are aware of this situation.

Until two or three years ago, howrah operations in Nagpur were often uncovered. However, howrah operators have strategically influenced certain individuals to eliminate obstacles to their activities. Those familiar with the situation recognize this shift.

Trade remains largely quiet, enabling the daily flow of crores of rupees into Nagpur, which are then dispatched to specific locations. Various vehicles, including specially modified compartments in cars and even two-wheelers, are utilized to transport howrah cash. 

Even when these vehicles are subjected to police checks, superficial inspections typically fail to reveal anything suspicious. This allows the driver to successfully reach the destination and deliver the consignment to the intended recipient.

Since the election code of conduct was enforced on October 22 for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand assembly elections, checkpoints have been established at various points along different routes.

Teams created by the Election Commission and police conduct inspections of suspicious vehicles, leading to the seizure of crores of rupees at various locations. Consequently, howrah operators are feeling pressured and have begun using trains to transport their consignments, according to sources.

There has been strong opposition to the implementation of parcel scanners, as large amounts of howrah cash were concealed in parcels sent via train for periods of four to six months.

This situation developed after Divisional Commercial Manager Aman Mittal mandated that scanners be used for all parcels in the department, resulting in considerable pushback. During this time, a consignment of Rs. 60 lakh was sent from Nagpur in a parcel on a train, which was seized by the RPF in Mumbai, causing a significant uproar.