Introduction
The Shatabdi Express, renowned for its speed, punctuality, and comfort, is a prestigious series of express trains operated by the Indian Railways, connecting various major cities and important destinations across the country.Whether you're embarking on a business trip, a leisurely getaway, or a rendezvous with loved ones, the Shatabdi Express promises an unforgettable journey.Let's explore the detailed introduction, historical significance, distinct features, differences with other trains and understand the convenience they offer to passengers traversing India's extensive railway network.
What is the Shatabdi Express?
The Shatabdi Express is a series of high-speed daytime trains operated by Indian Railways, offering premium services to passengers traveling between major cities. The name ‘Shatabdi’ is derived from Sanskrit and means ‘century’, symbolising the celebration of Nehru’s 100th birth anniversary. Shatabdi Express trains are fully air-conditioned known for their speed (Maximum speed is 150KMPH), comfort, limited stops , quick travel times, on-board amenities and making them popular among both business and leisure travellers.
Unlike other long-distance trains, Shatabdi Express trains return to their originating station on the same day.
Historical Significance
The very first Shatabdi Express was introduced on 14 November 1988 to commemorate the birth centenary of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister.
Inception: The idea for the Shatabdi Express was announced by then Railways Minister Madhavrao Scindia on 10 July 1988. The first train ran between New Delhi and Jhansi Junction, marking the beginning of a new era in Indian rail travel.
Evolution: Over the years, the Shatabdi Express trains have evolved with advancements in technology and passenger comfort. They were initially operated with specialised coaches manufactured by Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, and later upgraded to modern LHB coaches.
Speed: Shatabdi Express trains are designed for day travel and are among the fastest in India, with some trains running at a maximum permissible speed of 150 km/h (93 mph).
Distinctive Features and Facilities
Shatabdi Express trains are equipped with several distinctive features and facilities to enhance the passenger experience:
- Daytime Travel: Shatabdi trains operate during the day only.
- Speed: Shatabdi Express trains are among the fastest in India, capable of running at a maximum speed of 150 km/h (93 mph).
- Seating: They offer multiple class i.e AC Chair Car and Executive chair car with reclining seats and ample legroom.
- Catering Services: The ticket fare includes food service, which is provided onboard.
- Air-Conditioned: All Shatabdi trains are fully air-conditioned with modern amenities.
- Advanced Coaches: The trains have been upgraded to modern LHB coaches for enhanced safety and comfort.
- On-board entertainment systems such as LED screens offering preloaded content and Wi-Fi.
- Dedicated staff for passenger assistance and service.
- Dynamic Pricing: The fares for Shatabdi Express trains are subject to dynamic pricing.
- Vistadome Coaches: Some Shatabdi trains, like the Mumbai Central-Gandhinagar Shatabdi express, have added Vistadome coaches, which feature large windows and glass roofs for panoramic views.
Difference between Shatabdi and other Express Trains
The Shatabdi Express differs from other express trains in several aspects:
Speed and Punctuality: Shatabdi Express trains are known for their high speed and punctuality, making them ideal for travelers with time constraints.
Daytime Travel: Unlike overnight trains, Shatabdi Express operates during the day, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views during the journey.
Premium Services: Shatabdi Express offers premium services such as on-board catering, comfortable seating, and modern amenities, distinguishing it from regular express trains.
Fare of Shatabdi Express
The fare for Shatabdi Express trains varies depending on factors such as the class of accommodation, distance of the journey, and any additional services opted for by the passenger. Passengers can book their tickets through the official IRCTC website or other authorised booking channels, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience on board the Shatabdi Express.
Shatabdi Express Route
Shatabdi Express trains operate on various routes connecting major cities and important destinations across India. Some of the popular Shatabdi Express routes include:
| Train No. - Name | Days of Run | From - Departure | To - Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12025 PUNE-SC SHATABDI | Except Tue | PUNE 06:00 | SC 14:20 |
| 12026 SC-PUNE SHATABDI | Except Tue | SC 14:45 | PUNE 23:10 |
| 12277 HWH-PURI SHATABDI EXP | Daily | HWH 14:15 | PURI 21:50 |
| 12278 PURI-HWH SHATABDI EXP. | Daily | PURI 05:45 | HWH 13:40 |
| 12019 HOWRAH RANCHI SHATABDI EX | Except Sun | HWH 06:05 | RNC 13:15 |
| 12020 RNC HWH SHATABDI EXP | Except Sun | RNC 13:45 | HWH 21:30 |
| 12033 CNB NDLS SHT | Except Sun | CNB 06:00 | NDLS 11:20 |
| 12034 NDLS -CNB SHATABDI | Except Sun | NDLS 15:50 | CNB 20:50 |
| 12041 SHATABDI EXPRESS | Except Sun | HWH 14:25 | NJP 22:55 |
| 12042 SHATABDI EXPRESS | Except Sun | NJP 05:30 | HWH 13:45 |
| 12087 SHATABDI EXPRESS | Mon,Tue,Fri | NHLN 06:45 | GHY 12:30 |
| 12088 SHATABDI EXPRESS | Mon,Thu,Sun | GHY 13:45 | NHLN 19:35 |
| 12001 RKMP - NDLS SHATABDI EXP | Daily | RKMP 15:10 | NDLS 23:50 |
| 12002 NDLS - RKMP SHATABDI EXP | Daily | NDLS 06:00 | RKMP 14:40 |
| 12003 LKO-NDLS SHATABDI EXP. | Daily | LJN 15:30 | NDLS 22:25 |
| 12004 NDLS-LKO SHATABDI EXP | Daily | NDLS 06:10 | LJN 12:55 |
| 12005 NDLS-KLK-SHATABDI EXP | Daily | NDLS 17:15 | KLK 21:15 |
| 12006 KLK-NDLS SHATABDI EXP | Daily | KLK 06:15 | NDLS 10:15 |
| 12011 NDLS-KLK SHATABDI EXP | Daily | NDLS 07:40 | KLK 11:40 |
| 12012 KLK-NDLS SHATABDI EXP | Daily | KLK 17:45 | NDLS 21:50 |
| 12013 NDLS-ASR SHATABDI | Daily | NDLS 16:30 | ASR 23:05 |
| 12014 ASR-NDLS SHATABDI | Daily | ASR 04:55 | NDLS 11:02 |
| 12015 NDLS-AII SHATABDI | Daily | NDLS 06:10 | AII 12:55 |
| 12016 AII-NDLS SHATABDI | Daily | AII 15:55 | NDLS 22:30 |
| 12017 NDLS-DDN SHATABDI EXP | Daily | NDLS 06:45 | DDN 12:55 |
| 12018 DDN-NDLS SHATABDI EXP | Daily | DDN 16:55 | NDLS 22:50 |
| 12029 SWARNA SHATABDI EXPRESS | Except Thu | NDLS 07:20 | ASR 13:30 |
| 12030 SWARNA SHATABDI EXP | Except Thu | ASR 16:50 | NDLS 22:50 |
| 12031 NDLS-ASR | Thu | NDLS 07:20 | ASR 13:30 |
| 12032 ASR-NDLS SHATABDI | Thu | ASR 16:50 | NDLS 22:50 |
| 12039 KGM-NDLS SHATABDI EXP | Daily | KGM 15:20 | NDLS 20:55 |
| 12040 NDLS-KGM SHATABDI EXPRESS | Daily | NDLS 06:20 | KGM 11:55 |
| 12045 NDLS-CDG SHATABDI EXP | Except Wed | NDLS 19:15 | CDG 22:35 |
| 12046 CDG-NDLS SHATABDI EXP | Except Wed | CDG 12:05 | NDLS 15:20 |
| 12049 GATIMAN EXPRESS | Except Fri | VGLJ 15:05 | NZM 19:30 |
| 12050 GATIMAN EXPRESS | Except Fri | NZM 08:10 | VGLJ 12:35 |
| 12007 MAS-MYS SHATABDI EXP | Except Thu | MAS 06:00 | MYS 13:00 |
| 12008 MYS-MAS SHATABDI EXP | Except Thu | MYS 14:15 | MAS 21:30 |
| 12243 MAS-CBE SHATABDI EXP | Except Tue | MAS 07:10 | CBE 14:15 |
| 12244 CBE-MAS SHATABDI EXP | Except Tue | CBE 15:05 | MAS 21:50 |
| 12027 MAS-SBC SHATABDI EXP | Except Tue | MAS 17:25 | SBC 22:25 |
| 12028 SBC-MAS SHATABDI EXP | Except Tue | SBC 06:00 | MAS 11:00 |
| 12009 MMCT-ADI SHATABDI EXP | Except Sun | MMCT 06:20 | ADI 12:40 |
| 12010 ADI-MMCT SHATABDI EXP | Except Sun | ADI 15:10 | MMCT 21:45 |
FAQ
Q.is shatabdi a Luxury train ?
A. No. Shatabdi express trains are not typically considered luxury trains.
Q. is shatabdi a superfast train ?
A. yes.
Q. is shatabdi full AC?
A. yes.
Q. Which is the fastest shatabdi or Rajdhani
A. Both are high speed trains but shatabdi is faster.
