India’s high-speed luxury train, Gatimaan Express has made its inaugural journey. The lavish ride runs from New Delhi to Agra. The Honorable Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu, flagged off the first ride today.
The launch of the train heralds a new era of high-speed rail travel in India. Though a far call from bullet trains, it is the fastest train in India, with a maximum speed of 160 km per hour. The best aspect of the train is its deluxe features and facilities, inspired from the series of ‘Palace on Wheels’ luxury trains in India. The train has made it possible to enjoy a luxurious day trip to Agra possible.
Gatimaan Express - Travel Time
The train will cover the 192-km distance between Delhi and Agra in all of 100 minutes. The train achieves the maximum speed of 160 km/ hr.Timings
The Gatimaan service will be running on all days of the week, except Friday, the day Taj Mahal remains closed. The train starts from Nizamuddin station at 8.10 am and reaching Agra Cantt at 9.50 am. The return journey of the train will start from Agra at 5.50 pm and reach Nizamuddin station at 7.30 pm.
Gatimaan Express - Technology
Made by the Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala, the Gatimaan Express boasts of some of the best technology for locomotives. The train runs on a WAP5 electrical engine of 1500 Horse Power. It is the best in-class loco produced so far by Chittaranjan Locomotive Works and Linke Hofmann Busch coaches.Most of the locomotive and the coaches are the same as used in Shatabdi Express, though several changes in the track and the signaling system have been made. One of the reasons behind the Gatimaan’s higher speed is that Northern Railways has worked to cut down more than 80 obstacle points on the Delhi-Agra route. Sharp turns, bridges, crossings and yards have been lessened. Also tracks have been tilted for the smoother and faster run of the train.
Gatimaan Express - Menu of Gastronomy Served
The Gatimaan Express, owing to IRCTC is set to provide culinary delights. Different from other regular passenger trains in the country, the catering is unique and a new sign of luxury. The hostesses will be serving both Indian and continental cuisine. Imagine, Chicken Sausages with Spanish Omelette, plus slices of Date Walnut Cake. If you are on the calorie-conscious band, you can opt for the Whole-Wheat Upma, Kanjeevaram Idli, or Freshly Cut Fruits.Indulgent flavors of India are presented in delights of Aloo Kulcha, Mini Dosa, Chicken Roll and Swiss Roll are also on the menu. And the icing on the cake, everything will be served in Bone China. It is quite the gastronomical journey.