30 luxurious Rajdhanis, Shatabdis under Operation Swarn: Here's the first!
Weeks after the launch of 'Operation Swarn', the Railways will display its first 'gold standard' train today. The New Delhi-Kathgodam Shatabdi Express, which was chosen for the honor, now has refurbished interiors with vibrant vinyl wrapping, upgraded toilets, automatic hygiene control systems in all coaches, Wi-Fi hotspots and signboards in Braille. The project aims to give passengers about 30 trains like this. Here's more.
About Operation Swarn
Operation Swarn was launched around June-end under former railway minister Suresh Prabhu's tenure. The motive was simple: the Rajdhanis and Shatabdis, which had begun as luxury trains, have now lost their sheen and needed a makeover. Ten areas of focus were identified, including punctuality, catering, staff behavior, security, entertainment and feedback. A budget of Rs. 25cr was earmarked for the project.
What's the plan under the new project?
Under the project, automatic odor/hygiene control systems will be installed in coaches. Improved toilets will have personal seat covers and automatic doors. The executive class will get disposable headrest covers. Security will be upgraded: CCTVs will be installed and more RPF personnel deployed. The New Delhi-Kathgodam Shatabdi also has anti-graffiti coating on its exterior. Each train would get a makeover worth Rs. 50L.
Luxury has been a topic of focus for this ministry
The Railways under Prabhu emphasized on passenger comfort. For the purpose, it had launched several new trains with luxurious facilities, including the Humsafar Express, Tejas Express and Gatimaan Express. Railways has also brought KFC and Pizza Hut to trains as well as on-demand content streaming!
But are we ready for such luxury?
There have been recent cases where Indians have had to hang our heads in shame. Like when lavatory taps, hand showers, carpets and more were stolen from the Mahamana Express on its maiden journey. Or when the Tejas Express was vandalized even before its launch. "I urge people to cooperate in upkeep of various amenities," a senior Railways official has requested this time.
