Passengers to pay more for Delhi-Agra semi-high speed train

New Delhi, Nov 28: Passengers will have to shell out more for travelling in Delhi-Agra semi-high speed train 'Gatimaan Express', as its fare structure is about 25 per cent higher than that of the Shatabdi Express for the same route.

Gatimaan's fare structure is about 25 per cent higher than the Shatabdi fares for the same route and destination, a railway notification said.

While it costs Rs 505 for AC Chair Car for Delhi-Agra in Shatabdi, a passenger will have to pay about Rs 625 to travel in Gatimaan Express. Gatimaan's Executive Class will cost about Rs 1,325 as against Shatabdi's Rs 1,000.

Gatimaan Express, which is expected to be operational from next month, will travel at 160 km per hour speed, highest so far in Indian Railways. Shatabdi runs at the speed 130 km per hour speed.

While the travel time between Delhi and Agra in Shatabdi is 120 minutes, the Gatimaan Express proposes to reduce travelling time to 105 minutes. Equipped with comfortable seating arrangement, the Gatimaan Express will have automatic fire alarm with emergency braking system and passenger information system.

Like Shatabdi, passengers will also be served refreshment on board. The first semi-high speed service of the Railways is being considered a boon for tourists visiting the city of Taj Mahal.

Railways is currently awaiting safety clearance from the Commissioner Railway Safety for flagging off the train.

According to a senior Railway Ministry official, all necessary preparations including fencing of certain areas along the route are expected to be completed soon.

Railways has already conducted two trials of the train so far. Equipped with a 5,400HP electric locomotive, Gatimaan will have 14 new LHB AC coaches manufactured at Rail Coach Factory at Kapurthala.

PTI