IRCTC is All Geared Up to Launch its Third Private Train on Indore - Varanasi Route

Yes, you heard that right. The third private train of IRCTC is all set to begin its operations this month and will soon roll out on Indore – Varanasi route. The train rakes in similarity with the Humsafar express of Indian Railways. This information was revealed by Railway Board Chairman Vinod Kumar Yadav earlier this week

The catering and e-ticketing arm of Indian Railways, IRCTC is undertaking the operations of this train as well. This third private train will become the first Tejas Express to run overnight on Indore- Varanasi route and is likely to be inaugurated on February 20. Earlier in 2019, the IRCTC launched its first private train called as Tejas Express on Lucknow-Delhi route and it was later followed by another Tejas Express on Ahmedabad- Mumbai route. The second is said to be the fastest one on this route and a dynamic fare scheme is followed for both the trains.

A Little More About the Private Train

This third private train of IRCTC will run three days a week, i.e., two days through Lucknow and through Allahabad on the third day. According to the officer’s reports, this train will have only sleeper coaches, unlike the two Tejas Express which instead has chair cars in them. The Tejas express also possesses fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic doors and secured gangways, fire and smoke detection systems, improved aesthetics, vending machines and a lot more brilliant amenities.

Future Endeavours of the Indian Railway Board

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in Budget 2020 that there will be more Tejas - type trains to connect the iconic tourist destinations of India. Reportedly, the Railways department has planned to launch 150 trains with the help of private sectors. This decision by Indian Railways to let private operators run the trains has garnered a lot of attention among the private players.  These private organizations will provide better onboard experience and services to passengers while the rest like infrastructure, maintenance, operations and safety will be taken care of Indian Railways itself. 

Also, according to the reports made by officials, there was a discussion paper issued earlier this month by the government's policy think tank NITI Aayog and the Railway Ministry has forecast investment of about Rs 22,500 Crore to run the 150 private trains on 100 routes. These trains will surely help in easing transportation and will save people’s time from all the hustles.

What are your views on this decision taken by the government of India? Let us know in the comments below.