Third Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train Launched — Madurai To Varanasi

Continuing with theme-based tourist service, the third Bharat Gaurav train to be operated by a private player was launched on 23 July from Madurai for Varanasi, covering many religious and tourist spots.

Bharat Gaurav Divya Kashi Aadi Amavasya Express was flagged off from Madurai through video conferencing at the valedictory ceremony of week-long celebrations ‘Azadi Ki Rail Gadi aur Stations’.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, along with Ministers of State Raosaheb Patil Danve and Darshana Jardosh, were present at the valedictory ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Joshi said, “Under the guidance of the Prime Minister, the country is celebrating Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Indian Railways has organised an excellent programme in this iconic week by felicitating so many freedom fighters across India at various locations. I congratulate Indian Railways for hosting such a grand celebration today and giving me an opportunity to interact with the freedom fighters. The experiences of our freedom fighters will surely enlighten the younger generation and instill patriotism.”

The 14-coach train with pantry, AC, and sleeper facilities will be operated by Travel Times Private Ltd, a private service provider for tourists.

India’s first theme-based Bharat Gaurav train was flagged off from Coimbatore North to Sainagar Shirdi on 14 June. The Bharat Gaurav train Shirdi Yatra was launched by the private service provider M & C Property Development Private Ltd.

Subsequently, a week later, Shri Ramayana Yatra was launched by the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) from New Delhi on 21 June.

Though the Railways has decided not to engage private players in regular passenger service, it is continuing with theme-based tourist service involving private entities.