Srikakulam–Tirupati Humsafar Express train hits the tracks

Visakhapatnam: In a major milestone aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and strengthening rail connectivity in the region, the Humsafar Express connecting Srikakulam Road to the world-renowned Hindu pilgrimage destination, Tirupati, started its first-ever operation at Srikakulam Road Railway Station.

Flagging off the train service on Monday, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu said that his persistent efaaforts in securing the approval of the direct regular train service between Srikakulam and Tirupati gave desired results.

The train was inaugurated in the presence of K Ravi Kumar, MLA of Amudalavalasa, G Shankar MLA Srikakulalm, Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra, Srikakulalam District Collector Swapnil Dinakar and other officials.

The introduction of Srikakulam Road – Tirupati Weekly Humsafar Express (17440) is expected to significantly benefit passengers from the region by providing improved connectivity to Tirupati, Vijayawada and other intermediate destinations.

The train service was introduced in response to the long-standing demand of the public and aligns with the vision of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister of Railways to strengthen regional connectivity and promote the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

This new train service will greatly enhance access to pilgrimage, education, health care, employment, and trade opportunities, thereby acting as a catalyst for socio-economic growth in the region.

Srikakulam Road – Tirupati Weekly Humsafar Express train (17440) will leave from Srikakulam Road on Mondays at 3 pm with effect from April 13 and reach Duvvada the same day at 5:58 pm. It will depart at 6 pm and reach Tirupati at 08:10 hrs on Tuesday.

In return, Tirupati - Srikakulam Road Weekly Humsafar Express train (17439) will leave from Tirupati on Sunday at 4:55 pm with effect from April 19. The train will reach Duvvada the next day (Monday) at 9.33 am and depart at 9.35 am and reach Srikakulam Road at 12:30 noon.

The pair of trains will consist of a total of 22 coaches, comprising 15 third AC, one pantry car, 4 sleeper class coaches and 2 generator class cum luggage van.

The train will halt at Chipurupalli, Vizianagaram, Kothavalasa, Pendurthi, Duvvada, Anakapalli, Elamanchili, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Eluru, Vijayawada, Tenali, Bapatla, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur and Renigunta between Srikakulam Road – Tirupati stations both directions.

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The Hans India