Rlys to ply vistadome coaches on Kalka-Shimla section

Tribune News Service

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Ambala, December 20

In order to promote tourism, the Ambala division has decided to introduce a new train ‘Him Darshan Express’ (52459/52460) between Kalka and Shimla section comprising all modern first-class AC vistadome coaches for a period of one year. The train would make its first run on December 25.

According to Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Ambala Division Hari Mohan, “To provide delightful experience to passengers over world heritage Kalka-Shimla section, the Ambala division has decided to run a special train with six modern air-conditioned first-class vistadome coaches for having panoramic view. This would be the first train to have vistadome coaches to run on regular basis on the concept of individual seat charter services through Passenger Reservation System (PRS) and other online modes.”

Train would run from Kalka station at 7am and reach Shimla at 12.55 pm. It would depart from Shimla at 3.50 pm and would reach Kalka at 9.15 pm. Train would stop at Barog station en-route in both directions. The train would have a total of seven coaches, including six First Class AC vistadome coaches and a First Class sitting-cum-luggage room coach (FCZLR). Each vistadome coach would have a seating arrangement for 15 passangers, while the FCZLR would have a capacity to ferry 14 passengers.

The fare for the train has been fixed at Rs 630 per passenger for single journey irrespective of age and boarding/de-boarding station.

While booking for the vistadome coaches could only be done through the PRS, booking for the FCZLR coach could be be done at Kalka and Shimla stations.

The Senior DCM said, “Passengers will be able to enjoy panoramic view as these coaches have glass top roof and wider UPVC windows. Window roller blinds and honeycomb blinds for roof glass will also be provided to shun heavy light coming inside during summer. Seats will be adjustable (reversible) according to the direction of movement which will enhance an overall experience of site-seeing from inside the train.”