THE ITINERARY
Every year my annual leave took me to Kerala via the scenic Konkan and Southern Railways by Netravati Express/Winter Special or Garib Rath. The latest addition, Ernakulum Duranto is not suitable for us so I don’t think I will ever travel by that unless of course, I am travelling alone. But yes, I would like to try out the AC1 coupe of 2 berths in overnight Durantos
But this year the plans were north bound as my cousin was getting married in Delhi on 4th Sept, 2011.We had booked tickets to Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) by 12953 August Kranti Rajdhani in AC 3 Tier from Mumbai Central (BCT) on 31st August 2011. This was my maiden journey by any Rajdhani train. I was tempted to book for the 12951 Mumbai -New Delhi Rajdhani but my cousin stayed closer to Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) so had to settle for 2953.
Is it possible to go to the Capital and not visit New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)?
My parents wanted to see the Taj Mahal in Agra and had suggested that we book a cab to travel to Agra and return back the same day. This is where my company and the railfan in me came up with an idea. Fortunately, I am entitled to staying in any of our Brand Hotels for 5 nights in a year and I certainly wanted to make good use of it this time. Plus, I was in no mood to travel by cab to Agra. So finally a long cherished dream of travelling by the fastest train in India took fruit. I booked tickets for the NDLS-Bhopal Shatabdi by AC Chair car for 3 of us till Agra Cantt (AGC). Since I was travelling on Wednesday the 7th Sept, I was assured of a German LHB rake and speeds of 150KMPH...
This also ensured that I end up seeing both NZM and NDLS. We planned to stay at The Gateway Hotel, Fatehabad Road, Agra for 2 nights. Return journey from Agra Cantt was booked on the pride of Central Railways (CR), 12138 Punjab Mail in AC 3 tier on 9th Sept 2011. Since the Departure from Agra was at 8:50 am the entire day journey would be through the unseen areas of UP and MP and Maharashtra would have traversed in the night, which I had seen during my previous visits to Manmad and beyond on a few occasions. Finally, alighting at Kalyan on the morning of 10th Sept 2011.
THE TASK OF REACHING MUMBAI CENTRAL(BCT)
My Dad is an overcautious man. He does not like last minute run-arounds. Our train 12953 BCT-NZM August Kranti Rajdhani has a scheduled departure of 17:40 from BCT and I thought leaving our home in Dombivli at 15:30 should suffice as I was planning to catch a fast train to Dadar and then change to Western line and reach BCT. But, Dad was adamant on leaving early on account of rains. I did not want to argue with him and left home as early as 13:40. (4 hrs prior to the departure of Rajdhani).
As our trip involved a lot of walking, I had ensured that the entire luggage were trolley based. We took an auto from our residence to Dombivli East. I & Mom had Season Tickets to CST, so bought a First Class ticket to BCT for Dad as I did not want him to face the crowd fury in 2nd class. I knew there was a DI-DR slow at 14:19 so we came down the Foot over Bridge (FOB) to Platform (PF) 2 and waited with anticipation for an old DC EMU as my luggage wouldn’t have fitted on the racks of the newer MRVC trains. The middle 1st Class that we boarded was 72345. Our EMU started on time and before we could leave DI I saw GOC WDG3A twins hauling BTPN rakes on 5th line. Giving us company on the fast track was WCAM3 hauled Allahabad-LTT Express with an astounding 9 AC Coaches, H1, HA1, A1, A2, B1-B5 and innumerable sleeper coaches till Diva Jn. We crossed Kalyan Twin Shakti at Diva Junction with BCNA load. We caught up with the Allahabad-LTT again at Thane as it was crossing over to PF 8.
11042 Mumbai-Chennai was hauled by the mighty WDP4 in LHF mode and was making its customary dual halts on PF 5 at Thane. Guntakal Twins were waiting in the Mulund yard with a BCNA rake. In a triple parallel action, A CST Mumbai bound fast train overtook our Dadar Slow and Allahabad-LTT on the fly. It was an exhilarating experience. Following that, Howrah-Mumbai hauled by WCAM3 overtook my slow EMU before KanjurMarg. Sinhagad Express to Pune crossed us at Vikhroli at 15:05. At Vidyavihar a BTPN rake was seen entering 5th line from the yard. After Kurla, I could hear Justin Bieber screaming, “Baby, Baby” from loudspeakers and I knew EID was celebrated in this part of the city with much fervor. We reached Dadar PF 2 at 15:25. I had to buy tickets to BCT for 2 of us, so took the CST end FOB, which was a mistake as the FOB was crowded. After buying tickets with my smart card we waded through the human swarm and alighted on Dadar (WR). We left 2 EMUS and finally took the 3rd EMU to BCT and decided to stand by the door with the luggage. The run was normal and within 10 minutes we reached BCT. After taking the FOB we landed at the outstation terminus. I was coming to BCT after more than 20 years as most of my Western Railway journeys had started from Dadar (WR) or Borivali.
I was carrying a printout of journey details of 12953 Rajdhani, which mentioned that the train would leave from PF 4 and our coach B-6 was 8th from the locomotive. 12951 Mumbai-New Delhi Rajdhani was already berthed on PF1 and its EOG (End-on-Generator) noise was deafening the station premises. Soon, WCAM1 #21814 hauled Gujarat Express arrived on PF 3. After, AK Rajdhani was pushed back into the station from the yard, BCT-Valsad with some Double-Decker coaches were berthed on PF 5.
AUGUST KRANTI RAJDHANI CHUGS OUT
I took my mom on a tour of the train from the pantry car to the 2 tier coaches. Explained her difference in the configurations. She is unknowingly becoming a railfan of sorts. We left dot on time with WCAM2 at our helm. We were made to wait for a few seconds and then allowed on the mainline. We were cruising past the suburban stations. Though we reached Andheri and Borivali before time, our departure was as per schedule. We crossed Virar at 18:40. At Borivali, we overtook; WCAM1 hauled Bandra-Jamnagar Express. The Vaitarna South Bridge was traversed at a lowly 20 kmph speed. The best thing about the LHB coaches for a railfan is that you can peep out of the ventilators of the Loo to see the outside world. We went past Boisar at 19:10. Soon the BSES Dahanu TPS could be seen on the west side and we flied past Dahanu at 19:20. The SAIL Ads on the windows were turning an eyesore as I could hardly see anything outside with the sun setting in the horizon. We were also getting used to the jerks due to CBC Couplers in the LHB rakes. My mom is strongly against Door-Plating, though I did manage to sneak out a few times by showing intent to visit the loo.
Something about the service:
Our 3 Tier coaches had curtains similar to 2 Tier coaches. As soon as we left BCT, the Bed Roll consisting of 2 Bed sheets, 1 Blanket and 1 Pillow was delivered to our seats. The evening tea was served before Andheri arrived. It consisted of 2 Eclairs, 1 Ghasitaram Sweet, Godrej Jumpin Pinepaple Juice, Cheese Sandwitch, and Tomato Ketchup, 2 Kachoris, Thermos water bottle and a Tea Kit. Rail-Neer bottle with a paper glass, wet tissue, Strip Soap, mouth freshener and napkin too were provided. The Tea-Kit had Dairy whitener, sugar, stirrer and tea bags enough for 2 people. The rail magazine and newspaper were provided in very aisle. After the evening tea, Dad said, he was full and nothing more could go in tonight. I told him, “yeh to shuruvat hai..aage aage dekho hota hai kya….!! “
We reached Vapi at 19:44 and left after 4 minutes halt but I guess there was an Emergency Chain Pulling (ECP) and we came to a standstill abruptly and waited at Vapi for the next 5-10 minutes. The adjacent platform had Bharuch-Virar passenger. But we did manage to reach Valsad at 20:13, where I could see a train with Double Decker coaches.
After Vapi, Veg soup with Bread sticks was served and they tasted really nice. After Valsad, dinner was served. We had ordered for 2 Veg meals for my parents and 1 Non-Veg meal for me. As veg meals were served first, I had to wait till the entire coach got their veg meals. Though my stomach was full, I was anxious to see the Non-Veg Menu. Finally when it arrived, it consisted of 2 Chappattis, 1 bowl of rice, 1 mixed pickle sachet, Amul Masti Dahi, chicken curry with 2 large pieces, dal fry and Strawberry Cup Ice-Cream. Though the quality of chapattis could have been better, overall it was a good meal.
The lights in the horizon were getting brighter and a huge Raghulal Textile Market could be seen. I knew Surat was close and we reached 6 minutes before time. It was time for bed and I took the Lower Berth, Mom was on the adjacent Lower Berth and Dad had to unwillingly take the Middle Berth. We reached Bharuch at 21:36 and left at 21:44. Vadodara came at 22:50 and we departed after a loco change at 23:10. I had strict instructions to not detrain during the night so could not get down to check our new loco. But, I had company in my Whatsapp friends. We kept chatting late into the night till midnight. I was going gaga over the Rajdhani and they were expressing the desire to board it someday.
I got up at 05:25 to find our train waiting at Kota junction. Kota-NZM JanShatabdi was berthed on PF 1A. We reached Sawai Madhopur 5 minutes before time. A few passengers got down here. Saw a WAG9 with container rake enroute. I started the GPS on my Phone and found our train clocking 120-130 kmph. We reached Mathura Jn at 08:45 and as we were before time, I decided to check on our Loco. It was White Beauty WAP5 #30031 from Ghaziabad.
Another WAP5 came to a halt at Mathura with the Taj Express.
The Tea kit was provided in the morning along with 2 Marie Biscuits. At 07:30, Breakfast was provided which consisted of 2 loafs of bread, 2 cutlets with green peas, mixed fruit jam, ketchup, butter and éclairs. We were cruising at a flat 130kmph and I was thinking that we would reach NZM as early as 10:25 as we were passing most of the stations at lightning speed. All hopes of reaching were dashed as we started getting RED after Faridabad. We were made to wait outside Tuglakabad for 10 minutes and at Okhla for another 10 minutes. In between, I got my first glimpse of Metro lines crossing the railway tracks overhead and a Mainline EMU in Yellow and Green livery bound for Palwal. At Tuglakabad, I could see innumerable WAP 5/7 and WAG9s. At 10:55 sharp, we were admitted on PF4 of NZM. The adjacent platform had NZM-Pune Duranto waiting for departure. Secundrabad Rajdhani with ICF coaches were seen on a platform waiting to be shunted out. My cousin sister had come to receive us and we made our way out of the Okhla End FOB. I was elated to see a dozen WAP5/7 waiting for assignments in the pit lines at NZM. I said in my mind, ’Dear Wappies, hope to see you soon in Mumbai with the impending DC-AC conversion of WR’.
MAIDEN METRO TRAVEL
We reached Delhi on 1st September 2011 and did a sightseeing of Delhi area on 2nd September 2011. 3rd-4th September we were busy with the wedding ceremony and 5th September was spent relaxing after the last 2 hectic days. 6th September was the D-Day for my maiden metro travel. My cousin sister had volunteered to take me along the pride of Delhi. We decided to travel from Anand Vihar ISBT to Rajiv Chowk and back.
We took a Green Bus to Anand Vihar ISBT. The fare structure amazed me. It’s a flat Rs. 5,10,15 and so on. The Buses are either Leyland or Tata make. They were well maintained. At Anand Vihar ISBT, I could see a huge expanse of land dedicated for the road transport and the innumerable buses destined for various places lined up beautifully. Anand Vihar Terminus too could be seen on the other side of Metro station. The station was neat and clean. We had to take the escalators twice to reach the 2nd floor level where tickets (token) were available. The Access Controlled entry and exits to the platform was good and there were separate lines for Men and Women. The fare was Rs 16 to Rajiv Chowk. As soon as we entered the platforms on the elevated level, saw the bright indicators mentioning the next train and its expected time. There were pink markers on the floor of the platform for the 1st coach which was designated for ladies. Soon, a Bombardier rake came honking for Dwarka Sector 21 and we boarded the 2nd coach. The Longitudinal seats between the auto closing doors meant there was less seating space but more space to stand. We accelerated well out of the station and the ride quality index must be very high as compared to the Mumbai Suburban’s MRVC rakes. There was little or no noise of the train’s movement within the coach. Most of the stations were elevated or ground level and the stations were much closer. Laxmi Nagar station was crowded and there was an announcement, informing the commuters to alight at Yamuna Bank for those bound for Noida City Centre. Crowd began to swell as we were drawing closer to Rajiv Chowk. We saw a large maintenance facility for the Metro Rakes enroute and there were at least 6 -7 rakes idling on different lines. We had moved from Elevated to Ground (Yamuna Bank) and finally Underground at Barakhamba Road. Some portions of these stations gave me a feel of Vashi and Belapur in Navi-Mumbai. Finally when Rajiv Chowk arrived, it looked as if I was travelling in the Mumbai Suburban Network as there was an equal amount of crowd trying to get in and get out. But the best thing was that the commuters outside had lined up to enter the coach from both sides and the commuters inside were allowed to alight first. A far cry in Mumbai.
Rajiv Chowk has the look and feel of a hip and happening place with a lot of eateries and shops lined up inside the station. The uber cool signages and frequent arrival and departure of metro rakes meant, I was in the heart of the city.
We spent some time roaming around Connaught Place (CP), seeing the Lutyens' Delhi and the Circular Business District reminds me of the Fort Area in Mumbai. The places around Horniman Circle, Asiatic Library in Mumbai give a sense of resemblance. We had mouth watering Raj Kachoris, Shahi Paneer and other delicacies at the huge Haldiram’s outlet in CP. Then we headed back to Anand Vihar. My first impressions of the Delhi Metro were “WOW!!” With the extensive coverage of Delhi, Metro has seriously made commuting an easier option in the otherwise wide and beautiful traffic ridden streets. In terms of infrastructure, Delhi has beaten Mumbai with the expanse of Metro and the up gradation of roads, street furniture and otherwise. Commonwealth Games has done a lot of good for the common Delhite. Our next pit stop
was Agra and what’s better than Bhopal Shatabdi to reach there.
FASTEST TRAIN IN INDIA(BHOPAL SHATABDI)
7th September was the Day I was waiting for since ages. It was a dream comes true of sorts. I was about to travel by the fastest train in India, the mighty Bhopal Shatabdi from NDLS-Agra Cant. (AGC). With departure timings of 06:15, we had to get up at 04:00 am and leave my cousin’s house at 5:15am to reach New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS).
The gleaming façade facade of the station on the PF16 side was beautiful in the early hours. We parked our car in the parking zone and with our luggage took the stairs to the FOB as Bhopal Shatabdi was scheduled to leave from PF1. I had my first glimpse of the escalators at an Indian Railways Station though it was not operational in the morning. As we stood under C4 coach position indicators, ICF Ajmer Shatabdi was shunted onto Pf2 by a TKD WDM2. Punjab Mail to CST departed with a WAP4. Soon WAP5 brought our empty Shatabdi rake and we settled in our seats, WS31, 32 and 33.There were about 20 kids on an excursion in our coach and they were an impatient lot. A few foreigners too were onboard. One look at the reservation chart meant the train was running virtually empty from Agra to Bhopal. 99% of the passengers were bound for Agra.
The wide windows of the LHB rake are a joy for a railfan. After the Ajmer Shatabdi left from Pf2, Dadar-Amritsar arrived with a WAP4. After bidding fond farewell to my cousin, we departed dot on time and to give us company in a parallel run was the Lucknow Shatabdi hauled by WAP7. As both the trains were negotiating the turnouts out of NDLS, we were running at a sedate speed and it continued right up to Tilak Bridge. We parted ways and began approaching Hazrat Nizammudin(NZM). I spotted an NR EMU, Indore-NewDelhi on the way. Rakes of Taj Express, dirty coaches of Mangala Express and NR EMUs could be spotted in the stabling lines.Bangalore Rajdhani was seen moving towards its final destination. We hadn’t hit top speed till we crossed NZM. Then WAP5 started to show its true power and we overtook Punjab Mail at Faridabad. The tea kit was served like in rajdhani. The CBC coupler jerks ensured that a few drops of tea spilled from the glass onto my shirt. We were flying past the stations in a whisker. At Palwal, I could spot three NR EMUs. We slowed down for 5 minutes before Sholaka where we presumably overtook a MEMU. We crossed an unknown express and BCT-NDLS Rajdhani before Hodal. At Kosi Kalan, I saw an empty 12 car and a fully loaded 8 car MEMU. We also went past a WAG9 with Conraj .
It started raining and we slowed down before Chata. At Ajhai we overtook a WAP4 led express with milk tanker wagons just behind the loco. We were constantly hitting high speeds and dropping it to slow down. All that meant that Mathura arrived at 07:45 instead of 07:32. As we were coming to a halt at Mathura Jn, Bandra Terminus-NZM Garib-Rath was departing from the adjacent PF. An SWR rake of SBC-NDLS Express was waiting on the other PF. We left Mathura at 07:49 and saw WAP7 hauled Paschim Express entering the station. Following it on close steps was Jammu Tawi Express. At Runkta, we overtook a WAP7 led SEC rake of an unknown express.
We were running late by only 8 minutes and as we were coming down the Rail-over-rail flyover to AGC, a WAP4 led unknown express was going towards Jaipur. We alighted on Pf1 and the exit was as chaotic as one could get with the Taxi-Drivers and guides trying to lure the tourists. I had already spoken to the chauffer of The Gateway Hotel, Fatehabad Road while we were approaching AGC and he was waiting with my placard at the exit of the station. We were relieved and manage to put our luggage in the boot of the Tata Indigo, he had brought for Pickup. The hotel was a 15 minute drive from the station and we rested the whole day. On 8th Sept we visited the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikhri and bought some Petha for friends in Mumbai. On 9th Sept, we were to board the 12138 Punjab Mail to Kalyan.
PUNJAB MAIL BACK HOME
The 12138 Punjab Mail has a departure timing of 08:55 from AGC so we checked out of the hotel at 08:00 and reached the station by 08:15. Bhopal Shatabdi was expected on Pf 1 and being a Friday, I was expecting an anticlimax of sorts.
As Taj Mahal is closed to visitors on Friday, when the WAP5 arrived, very few people alighted from the train contrary to the scenario 2 days back when we were travelling. After its departure, Amritsar-Bilaspur was expected at 08:30 on PF1 followed by Punjab Mail at 08:50.Secundrabad-NZM Duranto ran through without halting behind a WAP7.
Sachkhand Express from Nanded arrived on PF 3 behind a WAP4 at 08:55. I saw a MEMU waiting on terminal Pf6, which is adjoining and ahead of Pf1 (towards Delhi). I wanted to go and check the MEMU but an announcement of change of platforms for the Punjab Mail to PF5 made it difficult. Almost all of us on the PF1 hurried to the wide FOB with our luggage and came down on PF5. It was 08:40 by now and WAP7 hauled Amritsar –Bilaspur Express arrived on PF1. PF5 looked relatively unfinished; the work on its flooring was going on. There were no coach position indicators and as it extended beyond PF1 a relative coach position judgment was not possible. I was carrying the E-rail printout of the coach position for our train which did mention that the AC coaches were close to the Loco. I decided to check with our own Coach Position Database, Mr. Shantanu Kulkarni (Kalyan) and he answered in the affirmative.
Finally WAP4E hauled Punjab Mail made a sedate entry into the PF5 and we were in the 7th coach from the loco.
After settling down in B1, I noticed Amritsar-Bilaspur was given the Go Ahead. We left late by 15 minutes at 09:10 and overtook the Bilaspur bound express at Mania. Indian Railway Atlas which I had been proudly carrying showed the border of Rajasthan & MP along a river and we crossed it on TSR of 20Kmph. After the bridge there was a TSR of 90kmph. We reached Gwalior at 10:55, late by 15 minutes. Saw a WAM4 on the adjoining PF and we reached Dabra late by 25 minutes.
Something about the service:
I was coming of 2 great journeys in Rajdhani and Shatabdi and naturally the expectations had sky rocketed. Our train was late but as soon as we got in at Agra Cantt, a housekeeping guy came with a broom to clean the coach. This was followed by a mopping exercise. Air Freshener was sprayed with our due permission. Our 3 tier coach had curtains like 2 Tier and the backrest was foldable into the Lower berth and, Middle Berth had to be lowered from locked position on top. The floor was clean, toilets had water and soap dispenser like in my previous 2 train journeys.
For Lunch, we ordered Veg Biryani and Chicken Biryani. We spotted a fort near Datia. By now, the train was delayed by 25 minutes. I wanted to see the lines conversing and divulging from Jhansi (JHS). Nagpur-Jhansi-Agra Passenger was waiting on Pf4 with WAG7 27136.Kanpur-Valsad Express with a WR rake was waiting on Pf2. It was hauled by WAM4. There a lot Diesel Locos at JHS. An inspection carriage with Lucknow WDMs on both ends was idling between PF1 and PF2. There were announcements of Kanyakumari-NZM express arriving on PF5. I did manage to spot a single electrified line approaching JHS. The journey till Lalitpur was done at high speed. I saw an under-construction line approaching from Khajuraho. We were doing good speed till Bina Jn outer where we were detained for 5 minutes. I guess the Level Crossing gate was open. From the train, the passenger yard looked small, but the freight yard was huge. As we were entering the last platform, Ratlam WDM3A with Ahmedabad-Varanasi was departing from Bina. A passenger train was waiting on the adjacent Pf with ET WAM4/6P. Bina-JHS passenger was also seen berthed on a different PF.
It was late afternoon and I was feeling sleepy. Mom was complaining about the lack of eating options in Punjab Mail as the only food items on offer were Veg Cutlet, Omlette and Samosa. Joining the mainlines to CST took a lot of time from the last PF as the crossovers were marked for 10 Kmph. We overtook a passenger with WAM4 at Mandi Bamora at 15:30. At Dewanganj we were put on a loop line. Before I could venture out, an unknown express overtook us. By now we had lost a lot of time and were running late by an hour.
At Nishantapur, as we were waiting on a loop line, NZM-Tirupati Express came and stood besides us on a parallel loop. We slowly crawled into Bhopal Junction, where Chindwara-Delhi Sarai Rohilla was waiting on PF2 with WAP4. I got down on the platform and scouted for some biscuits and patties. We left Bhopal at 18:00 and Habibganj at 18:15. Delay had mounted to 50 minutes and there was no hope of recovery as we had a lot of speed restrictions enroute and the Budni ghat to follow. We reached Hoshangabad at 19:20 and Itarsi Jn at 19:45. NZM-Secundrabad was allowed to overtake us as it did not have a stop at Itarsi. LTT-Guwahati via Jabalpur was expected on one of the PFs and Habibganj-Jabalpur Intercity was ready for departure from PF4. In the night we ordered for Veg thali. It consisted of Paneer bhaji, Dal fry, rice, chappatis and mixed pickle. Food was a letdown in the Punjab Mail. Maybe because I was coming off some great in-train food in Rajdhani and Shatabdi.
I decided to hit the sack soon as I was skeptical of any recovery at Bhusaval or Manmad. When I got up at 05:40, we were at Igatpuri and a WCAM3 and twin WAG5 #236XX were at the helm as we started the descend. We had the customary brake testing halts in the ghats. We reached Kasara at 06:20 and soon the brakers were freed and WCAM3 was ready to go solo till CST. I caught up with Shantanu and checked the options of travelling from Kalyan to Dombivli as boarding the Local train at 07:45 with luggage and alighting at Dombivli was certainly not an option. We were trailing an EMU and finally arrived PF5 at 07:45. As advised by him, we took the FOB to reach the PRS centre on PF1 and took an auto back home.
With this, the long and exciting trip to Delhi came to an end. There were many firsts in this trip and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. Hope I didn’t put you to sleep with this long blog.
-Nikhil Padinjaroot Karunakaran
Dombivli East
+91-9819250516
Every year my annual leave took me to Kerala via the scenic Konkan and Southern Railways by Netravati Express/Winter Special or Garib Rath. The latest addition, Ernakulum Duranto is not suitable for us so I don’t think I will ever travel by that unless of course, I am travelling alone. But yes, I would like to try out the AC1 coupe of 2 berths in overnight Durantos
But this year the plans were north bound as my cousin was getting married in Delhi on 4th Sept, 2011.We had booked tickets to Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) by 12953 August Kranti Rajdhani in AC 3 Tier from Mumbai Central (BCT) on 31st August 2011. This was my maiden journey by any Rajdhani train. I was tempted to book for the 12951 Mumbai -New Delhi Rajdhani but my cousin stayed closer to Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) so had to settle for 2953.
Is it possible to go to the Capital and not visit New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)?
My parents wanted to see the Taj Mahal in Agra and had suggested that we book a cab to travel to Agra and return back the same day. This is where my company and the railfan in me came up with an idea. Fortunately, I am entitled to staying in any of our Brand Hotels for 5 nights in a year and I certainly wanted to make good use of it this time. Plus, I was in no mood to travel by cab to Agra. So finally a long cherished dream of travelling by the fastest train in India took fruit. I booked tickets for the NDLS-Bhopal Shatabdi by AC Chair car for 3 of us till Agra Cantt (AGC). Since I was travelling on Wednesday the 7th Sept, I was assured of a German LHB rake and speeds of 150KMPH...
This also ensured that I end up seeing both NZM and NDLS. We planned to stay at The Gateway Hotel, Fatehabad Road, Agra for 2 nights. Return journey from Agra Cantt was booked on the pride of Central Railways (CR), 12138 Punjab Mail in AC 3 tier on 9th Sept 2011. Since the Departure from Agra was at 8:50 am the entire day journey would be through the unseen areas of UP and MP and Maharashtra would have traversed in the night, which I had seen during my previous visits to Manmad and beyond on a few occasions. Finally, alighting at Kalyan on the morning of 10th Sept 2011.
THE TASK OF REACHING MUMBAI CENTRAL(BCT)
My Dad is an overcautious man. He does not like last minute run-arounds. Our train 12953 BCT-NZM August Kranti Rajdhani has a scheduled departure of 17:40 from BCT and I thought leaving our home in Dombivli at 15:30 should suffice as I was planning to catch a fast train to Dadar and then change to Western line and reach BCT. But, Dad was adamant on leaving early on account of rains. I did not want to argue with him and left home as early as 13:40. (4 hrs prior to the departure of Rajdhani).
As our trip involved a lot of walking, I had ensured that the entire luggage were trolley based. We took an auto from our residence to Dombivli East. I & Mom had Season Tickets to CST, so bought a First Class ticket to BCT for Dad as I did not want him to face the crowd fury in 2nd class. I knew there was a DI-DR slow at 14:19 so we came down the Foot over Bridge (FOB) to Platform (PF) 2 and waited with anticipation for an old DC EMU as my luggage wouldn’t have fitted on the racks of the newer MRVC trains. The middle 1st Class that we boarded was 72345. Our EMU started on time and before we could leave DI I saw GOC WDG3A twins hauling BTPN rakes on 5th line. Giving us company on the fast track was WCAM3 hauled Allahabad-LTT Express with an astounding 9 AC Coaches, H1, HA1, A1, A2, B1-B5 and innumerable sleeper coaches till Diva Jn. We crossed Kalyan Twin Shakti at Diva Junction with BCNA load. We caught up with the Allahabad-LTT again at Thane as it was crossing over to PF 8.
11042 Mumbai-Chennai was hauled by the mighty WDP4 in LHF mode and was making its customary dual halts on PF 5 at Thane. Guntakal Twins were waiting in the Mulund yard with a BCNA rake. In a triple parallel action, A CST Mumbai bound fast train overtook our Dadar Slow and Allahabad-LTT on the fly. It was an exhilarating experience. Following that, Howrah-Mumbai hauled by WCAM3 overtook my slow EMU before KanjurMarg. Sinhagad Express to Pune crossed us at Vikhroli at 15:05. At Vidyavihar a BTPN rake was seen entering 5th line from the yard. After Kurla, I could hear Justin Bieber screaming, “Baby, Baby” from loudspeakers and I knew EID was celebrated in this part of the city with much fervor. We reached Dadar PF 2 at 15:25. I had to buy tickets to BCT for 2 of us, so took the CST end FOB, which was a mistake as the FOB was crowded. After buying tickets with my smart card we waded through the human swarm and alighted on Dadar (WR). We left 2 EMUS and finally took the 3rd EMU to BCT and decided to stand by the door with the luggage. The run was normal and within 10 minutes we reached BCT. After taking the FOB we landed at the outstation terminus. I was coming to BCT after more than 20 years as most of my Western Railway journeys had started from Dadar (WR) or Borivali.
I was carrying a printout of journey details of 12953 Rajdhani, which mentioned that the train would leave from PF 4 and our coach B-6 was 8th from the locomotive. 12951 Mumbai-New Delhi Rajdhani was already berthed on PF1 and its EOG (End-on-Generator) noise was deafening the station premises. Soon, WCAM1 #21814 hauled Gujarat Express arrived on PF 3. After, AK Rajdhani was pushed back into the station from the yard, BCT-Valsad with some Double-Decker coaches were berthed on PF 5.
AUGUST KRANTI RAJDHANI CHUGS OUT
I took my mom on a tour of the train from the pantry car to the 2 tier coaches. Explained her difference in the configurations. She is unknowingly becoming a railfan of sorts. We left dot on time with WCAM2 at our helm. We were made to wait for a few seconds and then allowed on the mainline. We were cruising past the suburban stations. Though we reached Andheri and Borivali before time, our departure was as per schedule. We crossed Virar at 18:40. At Borivali, we overtook; WCAM1 hauled Bandra-Jamnagar Express. The Vaitarna South Bridge was traversed at a lowly 20 kmph speed. The best thing about the LHB coaches for a railfan is that you can peep out of the ventilators of the Loo to see the outside world. We went past Boisar at 19:10. Soon the BSES Dahanu TPS could be seen on the west side and we flied past Dahanu at 19:20. The SAIL Ads on the windows were turning an eyesore as I could hardly see anything outside with the sun setting in the horizon. We were also getting used to the jerks due to CBC Couplers in the LHB rakes. My mom is strongly against Door-Plating, though I did manage to sneak out a few times by showing intent to visit the loo.
Something about the service:
Our 3 Tier coaches had curtains similar to 2 Tier coaches. As soon as we left BCT, the Bed Roll consisting of 2 Bed sheets, 1 Blanket and 1 Pillow was delivered to our seats. The evening tea was served before Andheri arrived. It consisted of 2 Eclairs, 1 Ghasitaram Sweet, Godrej Jumpin Pinepaple Juice, Cheese Sandwitch, and Tomato Ketchup, 2 Kachoris, Thermos water bottle and a Tea Kit. Rail-Neer bottle with a paper glass, wet tissue, Strip Soap, mouth freshener and napkin too were provided. The Tea-Kit had Dairy whitener, sugar, stirrer and tea bags enough for 2 people. The rail magazine and newspaper were provided in very aisle. After the evening tea, Dad said, he was full and nothing more could go in tonight. I told him, “yeh to shuruvat hai..aage aage dekho hota hai kya….!! “
We reached Vapi at 19:44 and left after 4 minutes halt but I guess there was an Emergency Chain Pulling (ECP) and we came to a standstill abruptly and waited at Vapi for the next 5-10 minutes. The adjacent platform had Bharuch-Virar passenger. But we did manage to reach Valsad at 20:13, where I could see a train with Double Decker coaches.
After Vapi, Veg soup with Bread sticks was served and they tasted really nice. After Valsad, dinner was served. We had ordered for 2 Veg meals for my parents and 1 Non-Veg meal for me. As veg meals were served first, I had to wait till the entire coach got their veg meals. Though my stomach was full, I was anxious to see the Non-Veg Menu. Finally when it arrived, it consisted of 2 Chappattis, 1 bowl of rice, 1 mixed pickle sachet, Amul Masti Dahi, chicken curry with 2 large pieces, dal fry and Strawberry Cup Ice-Cream. Though the quality of chapattis could have been better, overall it was a good meal.
The lights in the horizon were getting brighter and a huge Raghulal Textile Market could be seen. I knew Surat was close and we reached 6 minutes before time. It was time for bed and I took the Lower Berth, Mom was on the adjacent Lower Berth and Dad had to unwillingly take the Middle Berth. We reached Bharuch at 21:36 and left at 21:44. Vadodara came at 22:50 and we departed after a loco change at 23:10. I had strict instructions to not detrain during the night so could not get down to check our new loco. But, I had company in my Whatsapp friends. We kept chatting late into the night till midnight. I was going gaga over the Rajdhani and they were expressing the desire to board it someday.
I got up at 05:25 to find our train waiting at Kota junction. Kota-NZM JanShatabdi was berthed on PF 1A. We reached Sawai Madhopur 5 minutes before time. A few passengers got down here. Saw a WAG9 with container rake enroute. I started the GPS on my Phone and found our train clocking 120-130 kmph. We reached Mathura Jn at 08:45 and as we were before time, I decided to check on our Loco. It was White Beauty WAP5 #30031 from Ghaziabad.
Another WAP5 came to a halt at Mathura with the Taj Express.
The Tea kit was provided in the morning along with 2 Marie Biscuits. At 07:30, Breakfast was provided which consisted of 2 loafs of bread, 2 cutlets with green peas, mixed fruit jam, ketchup, butter and éclairs. We were cruising at a flat 130kmph and I was thinking that we would reach NZM as early as 10:25 as we were passing most of the stations at lightning speed. All hopes of reaching were dashed as we started getting RED after Faridabad. We were made to wait outside Tuglakabad for 10 minutes and at Okhla for another 10 minutes. In between, I got my first glimpse of Metro lines crossing the railway tracks overhead and a Mainline EMU in Yellow and Green livery bound for Palwal. At Tuglakabad, I could see innumerable WAP 5/7 and WAG9s. At 10:55 sharp, we were admitted on PF4 of NZM. The adjacent platform had NZM-Pune Duranto waiting for departure. Secundrabad Rajdhani with ICF coaches were seen on a platform waiting to be shunted out. My cousin sister had come to receive us and we made our way out of the Okhla End FOB. I was elated to see a dozen WAP5/7 waiting for assignments in the pit lines at NZM. I said in my mind, ’Dear Wappies, hope to see you soon in Mumbai with the impending DC-AC conversion of WR’.
MAIDEN METRO TRAVEL
We reached Delhi on 1st September 2011 and did a sightseeing of Delhi area on 2nd September 2011. 3rd-4th September we were busy with the wedding ceremony and 5th September was spent relaxing after the last 2 hectic days. 6th September was the D-Day for my maiden metro travel. My cousin sister had volunteered to take me along the pride of Delhi. We decided to travel from Anand Vihar ISBT to Rajiv Chowk and back.
We took a Green Bus to Anand Vihar ISBT. The fare structure amazed me. It’s a flat Rs. 5,10,15 and so on. The Buses are either Leyland or Tata make. They were well maintained. At Anand Vihar ISBT, I could see a huge expanse of land dedicated for the road transport and the innumerable buses destined for various places lined up beautifully. Anand Vihar Terminus too could be seen on the other side of Metro station. The station was neat and clean. We had to take the escalators twice to reach the 2nd floor level where tickets (token) were available. The Access Controlled entry and exits to the platform was good and there were separate lines for Men and Women. The fare was Rs 16 to Rajiv Chowk. As soon as we entered the platforms on the elevated level, saw the bright indicators mentioning the next train and its expected time. There were pink markers on the floor of the platform for the 1st coach which was designated for ladies. Soon, a Bombardier rake came honking for Dwarka Sector 21 and we boarded the 2nd coach. The Longitudinal seats between the auto closing doors meant there was less seating space but more space to stand. We accelerated well out of the station and the ride quality index must be very high as compared to the Mumbai Suburban’s MRVC rakes. There was little or no noise of the train’s movement within the coach. Most of the stations were elevated or ground level and the stations were much closer. Laxmi Nagar station was crowded and there was an announcement, informing the commuters to alight at Yamuna Bank for those bound for Noida City Centre. Crowd began to swell as we were drawing closer to Rajiv Chowk. We saw a large maintenance facility for the Metro Rakes enroute and there were at least 6 -7 rakes idling on different lines. We had moved from Elevated to Ground (Yamuna Bank) and finally Underground at Barakhamba Road. Some portions of these stations gave me a feel of Vashi and Belapur in Navi-Mumbai. Finally when Rajiv Chowk arrived, it looked as if I was travelling in the Mumbai Suburban Network as there was an equal amount of crowd trying to get in and get out. But the best thing was that the commuters outside had lined up to enter the coach from both sides and the commuters inside were allowed to alight first. A far cry in Mumbai.
Rajiv Chowk has the look and feel of a hip and happening place with a lot of eateries and shops lined up inside the station. The uber cool signages and frequent arrival and departure of metro rakes meant, I was in the heart of the city.
We spent some time roaming around Connaught Place (CP), seeing the Lutyens' Delhi and the Circular Business District reminds me of the Fort Area in Mumbai. The places around Horniman Circle, Asiatic Library in Mumbai give a sense of resemblance. We had mouth watering Raj Kachoris, Shahi Paneer and other delicacies at the huge Haldiram’s outlet in CP. Then we headed back to Anand Vihar. My first impressions of the Delhi Metro were “WOW!!” With the extensive coverage of Delhi, Metro has seriously made commuting an easier option in the otherwise wide and beautiful traffic ridden streets. In terms of infrastructure, Delhi has beaten Mumbai with the expanse of Metro and the up gradation of roads, street furniture and otherwise. Commonwealth Games has done a lot of good for the common Delhite. Our next pit stop
was Agra and what’s better than Bhopal Shatabdi to reach there.
FASTEST TRAIN IN INDIA(BHOPAL SHATABDI)
7th September was the Day I was waiting for since ages. It was a dream comes true of sorts. I was about to travel by the fastest train in India, the mighty Bhopal Shatabdi from NDLS-Agra Cant. (AGC). With departure timings of 06:15, we had to get up at 04:00 am and leave my cousin’s house at 5:15am to reach New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS).
The gleaming façade facade of the station on the PF16 side was beautiful in the early hours. We parked our car in the parking zone and with our luggage took the stairs to the FOB as Bhopal Shatabdi was scheduled to leave from PF1. I had my first glimpse of the escalators at an Indian Railways Station though it was not operational in the morning. As we stood under C4 coach position indicators, ICF Ajmer Shatabdi was shunted onto Pf2 by a TKD WDM2. Punjab Mail to CST departed with a WAP4. Soon WAP5 brought our empty Shatabdi rake and we settled in our seats, WS31, 32 and 33.There were about 20 kids on an excursion in our coach and they were an impatient lot. A few foreigners too were onboard. One look at the reservation chart meant the train was running virtually empty from Agra to Bhopal. 99% of the passengers were bound for Agra.
The wide windows of the LHB rake are a joy for a railfan. After the Ajmer Shatabdi left from Pf2, Dadar-Amritsar arrived with a WAP4. After bidding fond farewell to my cousin, we departed dot on time and to give us company in a parallel run was the Lucknow Shatabdi hauled by WAP7. As both the trains were negotiating the turnouts out of NDLS, we were running at a sedate speed and it continued right up to Tilak Bridge. We parted ways and began approaching Hazrat Nizammudin(NZM). I spotted an NR EMU, Indore-NewDelhi on the way. Rakes of Taj Express, dirty coaches of Mangala Express and NR EMUs could be spotted in the stabling lines.Bangalore Rajdhani was seen moving towards its final destination. We hadn’t hit top speed till we crossed NZM. Then WAP5 started to show its true power and we overtook Punjab Mail at Faridabad. The tea kit was served like in rajdhani. The CBC coupler jerks ensured that a few drops of tea spilled from the glass onto my shirt. We were flying past the stations in a whisker. At Palwal, I could spot three NR EMUs. We slowed down for 5 minutes before Sholaka where we presumably overtook a MEMU. We crossed an unknown express and BCT-NDLS Rajdhani before Hodal. At Kosi Kalan, I saw an empty 12 car and a fully loaded 8 car MEMU. We also went past a WAG9 with Conraj .
It started raining and we slowed down before Chata. At Ajhai we overtook a WAP4 led express with milk tanker wagons just behind the loco. We were constantly hitting high speeds and dropping it to slow down. All that meant that Mathura arrived at 07:45 instead of 07:32. As we were coming to a halt at Mathura Jn, Bandra Terminus-NZM Garib-Rath was departing from the adjacent PF. An SWR rake of SBC-NDLS Express was waiting on the other PF. We left Mathura at 07:49 and saw WAP7 hauled Paschim Express entering the station. Following it on close steps was Jammu Tawi Express. At Runkta, we overtook a WAP7 led SEC rake of an unknown express.
We were running late by only 8 minutes and as we were coming down the Rail-over-rail flyover to AGC, a WAP4 led unknown express was going towards Jaipur. We alighted on Pf1 and the exit was as chaotic as one could get with the Taxi-Drivers and guides trying to lure the tourists. I had already spoken to the chauffer of The Gateway Hotel, Fatehabad Road while we were approaching AGC and he was waiting with my placard at the exit of the station. We were relieved and manage to put our luggage in the boot of the Tata Indigo, he had brought for Pickup. The hotel was a 15 minute drive from the station and we rested the whole day. On 8th Sept we visited the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikhri and bought some Petha for friends in Mumbai. On 9th Sept, we were to board the 12138 Punjab Mail to Kalyan.
PUNJAB MAIL BACK HOME
The 12138 Punjab Mail has a departure timing of 08:55 from AGC so we checked out of the hotel at 08:00 and reached the station by 08:15. Bhopal Shatabdi was expected on Pf 1 and being a Friday, I was expecting an anticlimax of sorts.
As Taj Mahal is closed to visitors on Friday, when the WAP5 arrived, very few people alighted from the train contrary to the scenario 2 days back when we were travelling. After its departure, Amritsar-Bilaspur was expected at 08:30 on PF1 followed by Punjab Mail at 08:50.Secundrabad-NZM Duranto ran through without halting behind a WAP7.
Sachkhand Express from Nanded arrived on PF 3 behind a WAP4 at 08:55. I saw a MEMU waiting on terminal Pf6, which is adjoining and ahead of Pf1 (towards Delhi). I wanted to go and check the MEMU but an announcement of change of platforms for the Punjab Mail to PF5 made it difficult. Almost all of us on the PF1 hurried to the wide FOB with our luggage and came down on PF5. It was 08:40 by now and WAP7 hauled Amritsar –Bilaspur Express arrived on PF1. PF5 looked relatively unfinished; the work on its flooring was going on. There were no coach position indicators and as it extended beyond PF1 a relative coach position judgment was not possible. I was carrying the E-rail printout of the coach position for our train which did mention that the AC coaches were close to the Loco. I decided to check with our own Coach Position Database, Mr. Shantanu Kulkarni (Kalyan) and he answered in the affirmative.
Finally WAP4E hauled Punjab Mail made a sedate entry into the PF5 and we were in the 7th coach from the loco.
After settling down in B1, I noticed Amritsar-Bilaspur was given the Go Ahead. We left late by 15 minutes at 09:10 and overtook the Bilaspur bound express at Mania. Indian Railway Atlas which I had been proudly carrying showed the border of Rajasthan & MP along a river and we crossed it on TSR of 20Kmph. After the bridge there was a TSR of 90kmph. We reached Gwalior at 10:55, late by 15 minutes. Saw a WAM4 on the adjoining PF and we reached Dabra late by 25 minutes.
Something about the service:
I was coming of 2 great journeys in Rajdhani and Shatabdi and naturally the expectations had sky rocketed. Our train was late but as soon as we got in at Agra Cantt, a housekeeping guy came with a broom to clean the coach. This was followed by a mopping exercise. Air Freshener was sprayed with our due permission. Our 3 tier coach had curtains like 2 Tier and the backrest was foldable into the Lower berth and, Middle Berth had to be lowered from locked position on top. The floor was clean, toilets had water and soap dispenser like in my previous 2 train journeys.
For Lunch, we ordered Veg Biryani and Chicken Biryani. We spotted a fort near Datia. By now, the train was delayed by 25 minutes. I wanted to see the lines conversing and divulging from Jhansi (JHS). Nagpur-Jhansi-Agra Passenger was waiting on Pf4 with WAG7 27136.Kanpur-Valsad Express with a WR rake was waiting on Pf2. It was hauled by WAM4. There a lot Diesel Locos at JHS. An inspection carriage with Lucknow WDMs on both ends was idling between PF1 and PF2. There were announcements of Kanyakumari-NZM express arriving on PF5. I did manage to spot a single electrified line approaching JHS. The journey till Lalitpur was done at high speed. I saw an under-construction line approaching from Khajuraho. We were doing good speed till Bina Jn outer where we were detained for 5 minutes. I guess the Level Crossing gate was open. From the train, the passenger yard looked small, but the freight yard was huge. As we were entering the last platform, Ratlam WDM3A with Ahmedabad-Varanasi was departing from Bina. A passenger train was waiting on the adjacent Pf with ET WAM4/6P. Bina-JHS passenger was also seen berthed on a different PF.
It was late afternoon and I was feeling sleepy. Mom was complaining about the lack of eating options in Punjab Mail as the only food items on offer were Veg Cutlet, Omlette and Samosa. Joining the mainlines to CST took a lot of time from the last PF as the crossovers were marked for 10 Kmph. We overtook a passenger with WAM4 at Mandi Bamora at 15:30. At Dewanganj we were put on a loop line. Before I could venture out, an unknown express overtook us. By now we had lost a lot of time and were running late by an hour.
At Nishantapur, as we were waiting on a loop line, NZM-Tirupati Express came and stood besides us on a parallel loop. We slowly crawled into Bhopal Junction, where Chindwara-Delhi Sarai Rohilla was waiting on PF2 with WAP4. I got down on the platform and scouted for some biscuits and patties. We left Bhopal at 18:00 and Habibganj at 18:15. Delay had mounted to 50 minutes and there was no hope of recovery as we had a lot of speed restrictions enroute and the Budni ghat to follow. We reached Hoshangabad at 19:20 and Itarsi Jn at 19:45. NZM-Secundrabad was allowed to overtake us as it did not have a stop at Itarsi. LTT-Guwahati via Jabalpur was expected on one of the PFs and Habibganj-Jabalpur Intercity was ready for departure from PF4. In the night we ordered for Veg thali. It consisted of Paneer bhaji, Dal fry, rice, chappatis and mixed pickle. Food was a letdown in the Punjab Mail. Maybe because I was coming off some great in-train food in Rajdhani and Shatabdi.
I decided to hit the sack soon as I was skeptical of any recovery at Bhusaval or Manmad. When I got up at 05:40, we were at Igatpuri and a WCAM3 and twin WAG5 #236XX were at the helm as we started the descend. We had the customary brake testing halts in the ghats. We reached Kasara at 06:20 and soon the brakers were freed and WCAM3 was ready to go solo till CST. I caught up with Shantanu and checked the options of travelling from Kalyan to Dombivli as boarding the Local train at 07:45 with luggage and alighting at Dombivli was certainly not an option. We were trailing an EMU and finally arrived PF5 at 07:45. As advised by him, we took the FOB to reach the PRS centre on PF1 and took an auto back home.
With this, the long and exciting trip to Delhi came to an end. There were many firsts in this trip and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. Hope I didn’t put you to sleep with this long blog.
-Nikhil Padinjaroot Karunakaran
Dombivli East
+91-9819250516
