Mar 06, 2012 04:38 PM
5789 Views
I had an occasion to travel between Chennai and Madurai by Vaigai express. I travelled in both the directions within a span of three days.
This is the only train running between Chennai and Madurai in daytime. It contains sitting accommodation. Hence, it is easier to get confirmed seat accommodation at short notice by this train, compared to other overnight trains plying in this route.
The punctuality of this train is good. Neatness of coaches and toilets is just satisfactory. The attached pantry car service is good.
However, the 3+3 sitting arrangement is atrocious. Even average type of persons cannot simultaneously occupy the three seats, leave alone aged, obese, infant children, etc. The railways should make it 3+2 and make the travel comfortable.
Next, is the continuous intrusion of unreserved passengers. Initially, they occupy the space near the toilet, but then slowly swell and occupy all of aisle space, making it difficult to sit or move around. The TTE is least concerned about this.
Southern Railways can improve these two aspects. There is scope for running one more pair of trains and earning more revenue.
My recommendation would be conditional: lean and thin people who do not mind a little inconvenience by the stray people can take this train!
