More trains to and from Chandigarh sought

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, May 24

Lamenting poor rail connectivity with major cities of the state, city residents have renewed their demand for better train services to cities like Chandigarh.

At present, the 14888-87 Barmer-Kalka Express is the only train plying between Bathinda and Chandigarh.

On the other hand, there are around 45 PRTC buses and 11 private Volvo buses that ply between Bathinda and Chandigarh daily, which shows a heavy movement of passengers between the two cities.

As per the data procured from the railway, the lone 14888 Barmer-Kalka Express always runs packed to its capacity. Besides, the waiting list of the sleeper and AC coaches sometime even crosses the 100 mark.

City residents feel that another train between the two cities will come as a huge respite, if the railway authorities make efforts in this regard.

Mohan Kumar, a resident of Pratap Nagar, said, “While travelling in private Volvo buses, passengers don’t get seats despite paying Rs 550. Besides, in their bid to get maximum passengers the bus operators often put small benches in the passage between the seats, which makes the journey even more difficult.”

Bathinda Vikas Manch president Rakesh Narula said the railway authorities as well as the political leaders should take the initiative and raise the issue with the railway ministry. It will also boost the revenue of the railways, he added.

DRM Dinesh Chander Sharma could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.