Delhi-Allahabad Shatabadi Express during 'Ardh Kumbh'

Lucknow, Sep 1 (UNI) Union Railways minister Lalu Prasad has agreed to provide a new Shatabadi train between New Delhi and Allahabad before the 'Ardh Kumbh' starts in January 2007.

Mr Yadav has agreed to the demand of the Samajwadi Party MP from Allahabad Reoti Raman Singh for plying of the Shatabadi Express between New Delhi and Allahabad.

Talking to UNI, Mr Singh said the new train is likely to start from December.

In another decision, the railways ministry has approved an underground road passage near Rambagh railway station costing around Rs 11 crore. Earlier, the ministry had not given its NOC on a rail overbridge at the same spot.

Meanwhile, the ministry had already announced to develop Allahabad junction as a 'model station', which would be equipped with all modern facilities.

The Lok Sabha member from Allahabad said the railway ministry has also agreed to provide all facilities for the pilgrims coming for the Ardh Kumbh mela including introduction of several special trains from different parts of the country.

He said Air Sahara has already introduced Delhi-Allahabad direct flights from last month which would be an added facility for the pilgrims and tourists during the Ardh Kumbh mela.

Ardh Kumbh mela at Allahabad starts from January 3, 2007, while the first 'Shahi' bathing would be held on January 15 on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.

UNI MB VS PR RS1447