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Road Transport: Approved Tourist Transport…... 95 6.5.6 Motorcycle 1. With the invention of steam engines and bicycles, 19th century scientists quickly realized that combining of these two technologies could substantially improve transport on public roads. 2. First wave of motorized bicycles started appearing only few short years after the premiere of Pierre Michaux famous bicycle pedal bike and lasted to mid-1880s. 3. The First Gas-Engined Motorcycle ― Gottlieb Daimler used a new engine invented by engineer Nicolaus Otto. Otto had invented the first “Four-Stroke Internal-Combustion Engine” in 1876, dubbing it the “Otto Cycle Engine” As soon as he completed his engine, Daimler (a former Otto employee) built it into a motorcycle. 4. Pierre Michaux’s son Ernest made the first motorcycle in his Paris factory by combining small steam engine to one of their early “boneshaker” bicycle designs. 5. One of the most popular motorcycle models of all time is “Honda Super Cub”, which was sold in over 60 million units. Their dominance lasted to 1990s when several American and European manufacturers managed to reclaim large parts of world market (today’s most popular western brands include names such as BMW, Ducati, Victory and Harley-Davidson). 6. Today, motorcycles represent one of the most affordable forms of motorized transport on public roads. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

96 Managing Transport Operations 6.6 Summary The transport system in India includes Rail transport, Road transport, Air transport, water transport and portal connectivity. India has one of the largest road networks in the world, largest railway system in Asia and second largest in the world. Roads help in connecting far-fetch villages, interior countryside and hill areas which are not connected with railways. It is complimentary to railways. It acts as arteries for goods and passenger arriving at the railway station and often provides last mile connectivity. India’s road network is the third largest in the world. Road transport is vital to the economic development and social integration of the country. Road transport fulfills a major role in the Indian economy involving a wide range of industries and services from vehicle manufacturers and suppliers to infrastructure builders, services, energy providers, public authorities, insurance and many others. Road transport, together with the other modes of transport, provides indispensable mobility for all citizens and goods and contributes to the economic prosperity of a nation. It is a key factor to social, regional and economic cohesion, including the development of rural areas. However, the impact of road transport on the environment and health remains a major challenge in many aspects. Easy accessibility, flexibility of operations, door-to-door service and reliability have earned road transport an increasingly higher share of both passenger and freight traffic vis-à-vis other transport modes. In addition to these factors, transit time, availability of capacity on alternative modes, quality and reliability of the service, associated costs like warehousing and demurrage, etc. all influence the choice of the mode of transport. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road Transport: Approved Tourist Transport…... 97 6.7 Key Words/Abbreviations  Road transport: Road transport means transportation of goods and personnel from one place to the other on roads.  Motorail: A motorail train or accompanied car train (ACT) is a passenger train on which passengers can take their car or automobile along with them on their journey.  Recreational vehicles: It is a motor vehicle or trailer which includes living quarters designed for accommodation.  NH: National Highway  Car hires/rental: A car rental or car hire agency is a company that rents automobiles for short periods of time for a fee.  Automobile Association: Automobile associations, also referred to as motoring associations are organizations, either for-profit or non-profit, which motorists (drivers and vehicle owners) can join to enjoy benefits provided by the club relating to driving a vehicle.  Coach travel: A coach is a bus used for longer-distance service, in contrast to transit buses that are typically used within a single metropolitan region. 6.8 Learning Activity 1. Make chart presentation of Car rental companies in India. 2. Write an Essay about Road Transport System of India. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

98 Managing Transport Operations 3. Visit travel agent and collect information about various road transport available and cost of same of travel from Delhi-Agra- Jaipur. 6.9 Unit End Questions (MCQ and Descriptive) A. Descriptive Types Questions 1. Discuss merits and demerits of road transportation. 2. Discuss the car rental scheme in India? 3. Elaborate the Milestone in Road Transportation including pre-ordered history. 4. ‘Road transportation plays a major role in tourism industry’. Give your opinion. 5. Illustrate the government policies for road transportation. 6. Explain in brief the history of road transportation. 7. Write the importance of road transportation in India. 8. Write a short note on: (a) Inter-city and Inter-state Bus services (b) Motorcycle 9. Illustrate the government policies for road transportation. 10. “Transportation plays a major role in tourism industry”. Give your opinion. B. Multiple Choice/Objective Type Questions 1. Inspired by the and nations, the rickshaw became popular as a cheap means of transport and goods carrier. (a) Japanese, Chinese (b) Indian, Japanese (c) Chinese, Indians (d) USA, Chinese CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road Transport: Approved Tourist Transport…... 99 2. is a bus used for longer-distance service, in contrast to transit buses that are typically used within a single metropolitan region. (a) Car (b) Coach (c) Inter-state BUS (d) Motorcycle 3. First wave of motorized bicycles started appearing only few short years after the premiere of famous bicycle pedal bike and lasted to mid-1880s. (a) Pierre Michaux (b) boneshaker (c) Avis (d) Trans 4. The first major road system was established by the Empire from 300 BC and onward, mainly for economic, military and administrative reasons. (a) Persian (b) Russian (c) Roman (d) Ottoman 5. Best Expressway in India: The is known as one of the best Expressway in India and also referred as the National Expressway 1. (a) The Ahmedabad Vadodara Expressway (b) Mumbai Eastern Freeway (c) Agra Lucknow Expressway (d) Bangalore to Hyderabad 6. Road transport is best preferred for its speed, and adaptability. (a) Power (b) flexibility (c) Rigidity (d) Rule Ans.: 1. (a), 2. (b), 3. (a), 4. (c), 5. (a), 6. (b). CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

100 Managing Transport Operations 6.10 References Reference Books 1. Tourism: Operations and Management, 2009- S. Roday, Archana Biwal, Vandana Joshi- Oxford Publication 2. Tourism: Principles and Practices, Oxford publication, Sampada Swain, Jitendra Mishra. 3. Road Transportation, SM Trivedi―2010 4. Benson, D. and Whitehead G. 1985, Transport and distribution, Longman, Harlow. 5. Page S. J, 1994, Transport and Tourism, 3rd edition, Routledge, London. Web resources 1. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/definition/Road-transport 2. https://transportgeography.org/?page_id=1756 3. Website of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways 4. https://tourismnotes.com/tourism-transportation/ 5. https://www.civil.iitb.ac.in/tvm/1100_LnTse/102_lnTse/plain/plain.html 6. www.googleimages.com CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

UNIT 7 ROAD TRANSPORT: REGIONAL TRANSPORT AUTHORITY, ROAD TAXIES, CONTRACT CARRIAGE, STAGE CARRIAGE, ALL INDIA PERMITS ETC. Structure: 7.0 Learning Objectives 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Regional Transport authority 7.3 Road Taxies 7.4 Contract Carriage 7.5 Stage Carriage 7.6 All India Permits 7.7 Summary 7.8 Key Words/Abbreviations 7.9 Learning Activity 7.10 Unit End Questions (MCQ and Descriptive) 7.11 References 7.0 Learning Objectives After studying this unit, you will be able to

102 Managing Transport Operations  Describe various rules and regulations for road transport in India.  Explain the necessity of Regional Transport authority. 7.1 Introduction Road transport is vital to the economic development and social integration of the country. Easy accessibility, flexibility of operations, door-to-door service and reliability have earned road transport an increasingly higher share of both passenger and freight traffic vis-à-vis other transport modes. Road transport is a basic mode of transport for people to travel and to carry goods. Its capacity needs to be enhanced and road quality has to be improved to cope with the increasing pressure of road traffic. Road transport is vital to economic development, trade and social integration, which rely on the conveyance of both people and goods. Reduction in transport costs promote specialization, extend markets and thereby enable exploitation of the economies of scale. Global competition has made the existence of efficient transport and logistics systems in delivery chain an absolute imperative. Easy accessibility, flexibility of operations, door-to-door service and reliability have earned road transport an increasingly higher share of both passenger and freight traffic vis-à-vis other transport modes. Road Transport is one of the most important modes of transport. The history of Road Transport started from ancient civilizations. Gradually it becomes more and more popular means of transport. Road Transport further subdivided into Vehicular Transport (Cars, Trucks, Buses, Lorries, Autoricksaws, Bullock Carts, Tongas, Tumtums, and Hand Carts, etc.) and Non- vehicular Transport (Hamals, Animals like Camel, Dogs, Elephant, Horse, Mules, etc.). 7.2 Regional Transport Authority Road transport operators have to comply with Motor Vehicles Act 1988 and Central Motor Vehicle Rule 1989. It extends to the whole of India. It shall come into force on such date as the central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, appoint; and different dates may be appointed for different States and any reference in this Act to the commencement of this act CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road transport: Regional Transport… 103 shall, in relation to a State, be construed as a reference to the coming into force of this Act in that State. The objectives of all these are to regulate motor transport and to develop it on healthy lines. Under Motor vehicles act 1988, with a view to develop tourism, the state transport authority is empowered to issue tourist permits to tourist vehicles to be effective through India. If tourism is to be promoted, it is very necessary to remove all constraints for making smooth movements of road transport between the states within India. In respect to road transportation in India, taxation policies, licencing systems, etc., differ from state to state. Necessity for Driving License No person shall drive a motor vehicle in any public place unless he holds an effective driving license issued to him authorising him to drive the vehicle; and no person shall so drive a transport vehicle other than 1[a motor cab or motor cycle] hired for his own use or rented under any scheme made under sub-section (2) of section 75 unless his driving license specifically entitles him so to do. Regional Transport Office (RTO) is an Indian government bureau which is responsible for the registration of vehicles and issue of Driver’s License in India. RTO management will be having a lot of work regarding registration of vehicles and issue of driver’s license. Similarly, the vehicle owner sometimes forgets to carry the license and forgets the insurance at the time of inquiry. This paper proposed an approach to solving such problems that are by storing all the information related to vehicle and driver at database by RTO administrator. Functions of the Regional Transport Office (R.T.O)  Enforce the provisions of the various acts of Motor Vehicles, the central motor vehicles rules and the state motor vehicles rules as laid down by the government from time to time.  Ensure co-ordinated development of road transport through management of permit.  Charge and collect tax as per the provisions of the vehicles act. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

104 Managing Transport Operations The RTO is a state-level transport organization, whereas the DTO is a district-level transport organization. Works done at RTOs Some of the most important vehicle related works done at RTOs are: 1. Issuing Learner driving license and driving license 2. Issuing Commercial driving license 3. Issuing International driving license 4. Registration of vehicles 5. Re-registration of vehicles 6. Road tax payment – private and commercial 7. Audio tax payment 8. Issuing Fitness certificate for commercial vehicles 7.3 Road Taxies Taxis provide a publicly available service and are therefore part of public transport. In developing cities, taxis are a growing concern as road space is becoming scarcer due to population growth and a rapid increase of motor vehicles. The word “taxi” means “a vehicle with CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road transport: Regional Transport… 105 a driver available for hire to the general public”, i.e., vehicles that are smaller than buses or coaches and registered for maximum nine people. Better organized taxi service with better rates and high level of customer service came into being in the form of Radio Cabs at the beginning of the new millennium. The Birth of the Organized Taxi Industry In the early days, players like Mega Cabs and Fast Track Taxi started operations with their own small fleets, with drivers as employees. Passengers could book rides through telephone calls and payment was done in cash. In 2006, other players like Meru Cabs, Easy Cabs and Savaari appeared on the horizon. They took on drivers as “subscribers” who placed a deposit with the company. The company would buy a car, train the drivers in soft skills and charge a fixed amount from them per day. In turn, the driver had to bear the cost of fuel, while maintenance of the car was taken care of by the company. Some companies completely owned the car throughout its lifetime, while others, like Easy Cab, had a system wherein after five years of non-stop driving, the car became the property of the driver. The taxi industry in India is governed by the Central Motor Vehicles (MV) Act of 1988. The MV Act provides a broad framework which enables states to put in place rules for permits, regulate prices by setting maximum and minimum fares, limit the total working hours for drivers and so on. And the states have not resisted the temptation to act on these requirements. With the CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

106 Managing Transport Operations entry of Uber and Ola, we got to see what some economists call spontaneous liberalisation or spontaneous deregulation. They pushed the boundaries of administrative law and transformed the taxi industry in India. 7.4 Contract Carriage Contract carriage means a motor vehicle which carries a passenger or passengers for hire or reward and is engaged under a contract, whether expressed or implied, for the use of such vehicle as a whole for the carriage of passengers mentioned therein and entered into by a person with a holder of a permit in relation to such vehicle or any person authorized by him in this behalf on a fixed or an agreed rate or sum on a time basis, whether or not with reference to any route or distance; or from one point to another, and in either case, without stopping to pick up or set down passengers not included in the contract anywhere during the journey, and includes a maxi cab and a motor cab notwithstanding the separate fares are charged for its passengers. Owner of the vehicle can apply for Omni Bus Permit. The permit holder can operate a vehicle under a contract with his client for a fixed destination within or outside the State. This agreement should be executed between the clients and the operators and the list of passengers are also to be made available with the driver of the bus. Required Documents 1. Application in Form- CCPA. 2. Registration Certificate (If the vehicle is registered one). 3. Insurance Certificate (If the vehicle is a registered one). 4. Valid Tax. 5. Passport size photo―2. 6. Pollution under control certificate. 7. Proof of age. 8. Proof of Address. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road transport: Regional Transport… 107 9. Time limit for service to production of vehicle within 3 months from the date of order. 10. Apply to Secretary/Regional Transport Authority of the region in which applicant resides. 7.4.1 Carriage by Road Act, 2007 The Carriage by Road Act, 2007 is an Act of the Parliament of India which provides for the regulation of common carriers of goods by roads. The Act was published on 29th September 2007. The Act states that no person shall engage in the business of common carrier, after the commencement of the Act, unless a certificate of registration has been granted to him. Persons engaged in the business of common carrier before the commencement of the Act, were required to either apply for a registration within 90 days from the date of commencement of the Act or cease to engage in such business on the expiry of 180 days from the date of commencement of the Act. The Act defines a “common carrier” as a person engaged in the business of collecting, storing, forwarding or distributing goods to be carried by goods carriages under a goods receipt or transporting for hire of goods from place to place by motorized transport on road. It also includes a goods booking company, contractor, agent, broker and courier agency engaged in the door-to- door transportation of documents, goods or articles utilizing the services of a person, either directly or indirectly, to carry or accompany such documents, goods or articles. Objective of Carriage by Road Act, 2007 The objective is to prevent any person who is not registered and authorized to act or carry out a business of common carrier have to apply for registration and then engage in such a business or stop engaging in such a business. It also directs all the consign to declare the total value of the consignment in a Goods Forwarding Note (GFN) and also the nature of the goods being transported. 7.5 Stage Carriage Stage carriage, means a motor vehicle constructed or adapted to carry more than six passengers excluding the driver for hire or reward to separate fares paid by or for individual passengers, either for the whole journey or for stages of the journey. [Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (59 of 1988), s. 2 (40)]. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

108 Managing Transport Operations The Regional Transport Authority, if it decides to grant a stage carriage permit, may grant the permit for a stage carriage of a specified description and may, subject to any rules that may be made under this Act, attach to the permit any one or more of the following conditions, namely: (i) That the vehicles shall be used only in a specified area or on a specified route or routes. (ii) That the operation of the stage carriage shall be commenced with effect from a specified date. (iii) The minimum and maximum number of daily trips to be provided in relation to any route or area generally or on specified days and occasions that copies of the time-table of the stage carriage approved by the Regional Transport Authority shall be exhibited on the vehicles and at specified stands and halts on the route or within the area. (iv) That the stage carriage shall be operated within such margins of deviation from the approved time-table as the Regional Transport Authority may from time to time specify. (v) That within municipal limits and such other areas and places as may be prescribed, passengers or goods shall not be taken up or set down except at specified points. (vi) The maximum number of passengers and the maximum weight of luggage that may be carried on the stage carriage, either generally or on specified occasions or at specified times and seasons. (vii) The weight and nature of passengers' luggage that shall be carried free of charge, the total weight of luggage that may be carried in relation to each passenger, and the arrangements that shall be made for the carriage of luggage without causing inconvenience to passengers. (viii) The rate of charge that may be levied for passengers' luggage in excess of the free allowance. Carriages to be licensed No carriage shall be used as a stage-carriage unless licensed by a Magistrate or by the Commissioner of Police of a Presidency-town. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road transport: Regional Transport… 109 Power to refuse license The Magistrate or Commissioner of Police to whom the application for a license of a stage- carriage is made may refuse to license the same, if he shall be of opinion that such stage-carriage is unserviceable or is unsafe or unfit for public accommodation or use. Charge for and duration of license For every such license there shall be paid by the proprietor of the stage-carriage the sum of five rupees or such less sum as the State Government may fix, and such license shall be in force for one year from the date thereof. When a licensed stage-carriage is transferred to a new proprietor within the year, the name of such new proprietor shall, on application to that effect, be substituted in the license for the name of the former proprietor without any further payment for that year; and every person who appears by the license to be the proprietor, shall be deemed to be such proprietor for all the purposes of this Act. 7.6 All India Permits National Permit or All India Permit is a type of registration provided to transporters by the Transport Department of each State Government for goods carriage to operate through-out India. State Governments can issue two types of permit for goods carriage, one being State Permit and the other National Permit. A National Permit provides authorization for a vehicle to ply across India, the State in which the permit was issued, the Union Territory and at least a minimum of four other States. In this article, we look at the procedure for obtaining National Permit for a lorry in India. Definition of National Permit under Section 88 of Motor Vehicle Act “National permit means a permit granted by the appropriate authority to goods carriages to operate throughout the territory of India or in such contiguous States, not being less than four in number, including the State in which the permit is issued as may be specified in such permit in accordance with the choice indicated in the application.” CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

110 Managing Transport Operations Requirement for National Permit To obtain National Permit, the owner of the vehicle must make an application to the concerned State Regional Transport Authority. In many States, there is a restriction placed on the age of the vehicle for which National Permit is sought. National Permit can be obtained only for vehicles less than 12 years old. Documents Required for National Permit The list of Documents required for obtaining National Permit is: 1. Registration Certificate of the vehicle. 2. Fitness Certificate of the vehicle. 3. Insurance Certificate of the vehicle. 4. Proof of payment of tax for the current Quarter to the Home State. 5. Fee for National Permit. 6. Demand drafts drawn in favour of the Authorities prescribed in respect of other states towards payment of composite taxes. 7. Payment of green tax wherever applicable. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road transport: Regional Transport… 111 7.7 Summary Human sensitivity has revealed an urge for mobility leading to a measure of Society's progress. The history of this mobility or transport is the history of civilization. For any country to develop with right momentum modern and efficient Transport as a basic infrastructure is a must. It has been seen throughout the history of any nation that a proper, extensive and efficient Road Transport has played a major role. With the rise in living standards of the common people the number of personal vehicles owned by families has also increased in spite of the fact that India is still a developing country. Thus the over load of vehicles in the country with the progression of time application has led to implication of vehicular traffic control a predisposition. The 1st legislation passed for regulation of motor vehicles and other road user dates back to 1914 under the Indian Motor Vehicle Act. 7.8 Key Words/Abbreviations  RTO: Regional Transport Office (RTO) is an Indian government bureau which is responsible for the registration of vehicles and issue of Driver’s License in India. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

112 Managing Transport Operations  Contract carriage: Contract carriage means a motor vehicle which carries a passenger or passengers for hire or reward and is engaged under a contract, whether expressed or implied.  Stage carriage: Stage carriage, means a motor vehicle constructed or adapted to carry more than six passengers excluding the driver for hire or reward to separate fares paid by or for individual passengers, either for the whole journey or for stages of the journey.  National Permit: National Permit or All India Permit is a type of registration provided to transporters by the Transport Department of each State Government for goods carriage to operate through-out India.  GFN: Goods Forwarding Note  Common carrier: A person engaged in the business of collecting, storing, forwarding or distributing goods to be carried by goods carriages under a goods receipt or transporting for hire of goods from place to place by motorized transport on road. 7.9 Learning Activity 1. Visit RTO of your city and make a report of same. 2. Make chart presentation of the traffic signs in India. 3. Make a PPT presentation on importance of road transport rules and regulations. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Road transport: Regional Transport… 113 7.10 Unit End Questions (MCQ and Descriptive) A. Descriptive Types Questions 1. Elaborate in brief All India permit. 2. 2.Explain national highway act, 1956. 3. Discuss function of Regional Transport Office (RTO). 4. Throw the light on function of Regional Transport Office (RTO). 5. Explain in Stage carriage permit. 6. Describe the concept of Contract carriage. 7. Explain national highway Act, 1956. 8. Elaborate the Milestones in Travel including Pre-ordered history. 9. Enumerate the responsibilities of central government for maintenance of national highways. B. Multiple Choice/Objective Type Questions . 1. Road transport operators have to comply with Motor Vehicles Act 1988 and (a) Central Motor Vehicle Rule 1989 (b) Carriage by Road Act, 2007 (c) Central Motor Vehicle Rule 1978 (d) All India Permit 2. It is an Indian government bureau which is responsible for the registration of vehicles and issue of Driver’s License in India. (a) Central Motor Vehicles (b) National Permit (c) Stage Carriage (d) RTO 3. The taxi industry in India is governed by the Act of 1988. (a) Contract act (b) Central Motor Vehicles (c) State Motor Vehicles (d) All India Permit CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

114 Managing Transport Operations 4. To obtain , the owner of the vehicle must make an application to the concerned State Regional Transport Authority. (a) RTO (b) All India Permit (c) National Permit (d) DTO 5. It is a district-level transport organization – (a) DTO (b) RTO (c) All India Permit (d) Contract carriage Ans.: 1. (a), 2. (d), 3. (b), 4. (c), 5. (a). 7.11 References Reference Books 1. Tourism: Operations and Management, 2009- S. Roday, Archana Biwal, Vandana Joshi- Oxford Publication 2. Tourism: Principles and Practices, Oxford publication, Sampada Swain, Jitendra Mishra. 3. Road Transportation, SM Trivedi - 2010 4. Benson, D. and Whitehead G. 1985, Transport and distribution, Longman, Harlow. Web Resources 1. Road Transport plays a pivotal role in the economic development of India - http://www.indiatropes.com 2. Smriti Chand (2014) - Indian Roadways: Importance; Development and Classification of Indian Roadways - http://www.yourarticlelibrary.com 3. Website of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways 4. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/definition/Road-transport 5. https://www.civil.iitb.ac.in/tvm/1100_LnTse/102_lnTse/plain/plain.html 6. www.googleimages.com CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

UNIT 8 RAIL TRANSPORT Introduction to Indian Railway System, IRCTC- Role and Services offered Structure: 8.0 Objectives 8.1 Introduction. 8.2 History of Railways 8.3 Indian Railway System 8.4 Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) 8.5 Summary 8.6 Key words/Abbreviations 8.7 Learning Activity 8.8 Unit End Exercise (MCQ and Descriptive) 8.9 References 8.0 Learning Objectives After studying this unit, you will be able to  Explain various aspects of rail transport in India.  Analyse the role of IRCTC.  Elaborate the services offered by IRCTC.

116 Managing Transport Operations Logo of Indian Railways 8.1 Introduction Definition Railways can be defined as a network of steel tracks with the trains, organization and personnel energizing the functioning of the system which transfers the passengers or cargo from one place to other. Railways are the most preferred in-land mode of mass transport in India. Indian railways are well connected with almost all accessible parts of India. It has an incredible role in the growth and development of our country. It serves as a lifeline for commuter in the metro cities. Railways has shown tremendous growth over the period of time in terms of modification, modernism, technology and sofostication. Steam Engine and Diesel Engine CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 117 8.2 History of Railways 1. We will feel almost impossible about modern transportation of passengers and goods without trains, Railways has revolutionized the industry, human expansion and the way one can travel from one place to another. 2. The origin of railways started over 2000 years ago in primeval civilizations of Egypt, Babylon and Greece. Transportation of people and goods during those days was done through carts that were pulled by horses or bulls. 3. The engineers discovered that animals will employ much less energy if the cart will travel on a fixed path in comparison to uneven terrain. 4. Enabling this new way of transport on roads with pre-built constraints for wheels were constructed, they were known as stone etched wagon ways. These were the world’s first railway tracks. 5. Transformation was seen after incredible discovery of steam engine in 1774 by James Watt which converted power of steam into mechanical energy. 6. In 1804 first locomotive steam engines started running on the primitive rail tracks followed by Penydarren locomotive that pulled 25 tons and 70 people. 7. Stephenson’s ‘The Rocket: was the first commercial train that achieved to reach speed of 96 km/h. 8. Train technology got extensive updates by formulation of intercity railway tracks and underground tunnels in London. 9. During Second World War the much faster, low maintenance and trustworthy diesel fuel engines were discovered which closed the age of steam engines. 10. Eventually diesel engines became combined with electric engines enabling the most efficient era of transportation. Presently, trains represent the most significant mode of transport for people and goods. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

118 Managing Transport Operations 11. The height of amalgamation of engineering and technology was achieved by introduction of first high-speed rail system, the Tokaido Shinkansen, began operations in Japan in 1964 and was widely known as the bullet train. 12. Trains have journeyed through stone etched wagon carts ― steam locomotive trains ― diesel locomotive trains ― Electrical locomotive trains ― Combined locomotive trains- Maglev trains. It provides various alternatives like high speed trains (125 miles per hour and above), inter-city trains, commuter/regional trains, rapid transit and light rails. 13. Metro cities worldwide cannot live metro systems or EMU trains which carry millions of people every day along with heavy and durable goods train carry over 40% of cargo between towns, countries and continents. Electric Engine and Bullet Train 8.3 Indian Railway System Indian Railways is abbreviated as IR and is the national railway system of our country which is operated by the Ministry of Railways Government of India. Railways have played a most important role in infrastructure development of our country from 1850 to 1947. Railways have played a major role in integrating the markets and growing the trade hence supporting our economy. For decades it has been the most preferred and cost effective modes of commuting and goods carriage for long distance as well as short distances. It has been a lifeline for the metro cities for daily travelling. Railways have consistently being the safe, reasonably priced and dependable source of transportation for passengers and freight. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 119 Coal Engine 8.3.1 Evolution of Indian Railways 1. The first railway was proposed for India in Madras in 1832 and Arthur Cotton built train ran from Red hills to Chintadripet in 1837 with an intention to transport granite for road building. 2. In 1845 the Indian Railway Association was formed by Hon. Jaganath Shunkerseth and Sir Jamsetjee Jejeebhoy 3. On December 22, 1851, the train service started from Roorkee to Piran Kaliyar in Uttarakhand with a motive to resolve the irrigation problems of the farmers. 4. India’s first passenger train started on 16th April 1853 which ran between Boribander and Thane at a stretch of 34 km on a broad gauge track carrying 400 passengers in 14 carriages which was pulled by three steam locomotives (Sindh, Sultan and Sahib). 5. A horse pulled tram was started on 24th Feb. 1873 in Calcutta from Sealdah to Armenian Ghat. 6. The first electric passenger train was introduced on 3rd Feb.1925 between Victoria terminus and Kurla. 7. The regional zones of Indian railways organization were created in the year 1951 viz. Southern, Western and Central. 8. The fully air-conditioned train was launched in 1956 between Howrah and Delhi. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

120 Managing Transport Operations 9. The first container freight service began between Bombay and Ahmedabad in 1966 to boost trade and business. 10. In 1984 metro train was started in Calcutta between Dam dam and Tollygunge. 11. In 1988, Shatabdi express was introduced which ran between New Delhi and Jhansi. 12. The Garib Rath (Poor people's chariot) a no-frills air-conditioned train was started by the Indian Railways in 2005 for providing subsidized price air-conditioned long-distance travel. 13. In 2009, high speed Duronto express started connecting major capital cities in India. 14. India is on the verge of experiencing apex of railways technology that is bullet train that will run at the speed of 200 miles per hous. 8.3.2 Significance of Indian Railways 1. It is the fourth largest railway network in the world I terms of size, spread across a route length of 68442 km and total track length of 1,23,236 km as of March 2018. 2. It has a rolling stock of 11,764 locomotives, 2,79,308 wagons, 71,825 passenger coaches. 3. It operates from 7,318 railway stations across the country. 4. It carries 22.70 million suburban and non-suburban passengers per day. 5. It has recorded total earning of Rs. 1,78,725.31 Crore. 6. It has shown a performance by keeping accidents to 0.06% per million train kilometres. 7. It has seven centralized zonal training institutes and 295 training centres located all over India for training and development of human resource. (The above figures and statistics are as per the Indian railways year book 2017-18). 8.3.3 Advantages of Railways 1. Dependability: It is the most dependable mode of transport which is least affected by weather conditions like fog, rains, etc., compared to other modes of transports. 2. Eco-friendly: Railways especially the latest electric engines are very eco-friendly by absolutely no smoke pollution in comparison with other modes of transport. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 121 3. Well organized: It has fixed routes, schedules, reservation system and protocol of operation. 4. Long distance speed efficiency: It is most quick and efficient mode of transport in comparison to others except airways. 5. Heavyweight and bulk freight: Railways are best suited economical mode of transport to carry heavy weight and bulk freight to long distance destinations. 6. Economical: It is the only kind of transport which provide cheaper in comparison with others for short as well as long distance. 7. Safety: They are the safest mode of transport with just 0.06% per millions of kilometre of travel on land along with protection from adverse weather conditions. 8. Largest carrying capacity: Railways have extremely large carrying capacity with an elastic nature of increasing and decreasing capacity by adding or removing bogies. 9. Public welfare: It is a largest public undertaking with charges affordable to all sort of mankind. 10. Employment opportunity: It has 12,71,000 regular employees and many more contracted and indirectly employed service providers. 11. Nation building: It has always contributed to the nation by supporting infrastructure building, trade and economy along with the defence support system. 12. Variety: It provides a wide range of choice in terms of economy and services suiting to the budget of all segments of society, i.e., rich to poor. 8.3.4 Disadvantages of Railways 1. Gigantic Capital expenditure: Huge cost of capital expenditure is applicable for construction, maintenance and overheads. 2. Flexibility: Railways are very rigid and lack in flexibility in terms of routes and timings as per the passengers. 3. Lacks door to door service: It cannot provide door to door service because of fixed tracks making it uncomfortable for senior citizens and handicaps. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

122 Managing Transport Operations 4. Domination: Lack of competition has led to monopoly eventually breeding inefficiency and high costs. 5. Logistic formalities: Booking and taking delivery of goods is much time and labour oriented in comparison with road transport. 6. Service in Rural areas: Due to huge capital investment railways services in rural areas are very scare causing inconvenience to people in those areas. 7. Reservations: It is suitable for advance planned journeys as reservations start four month in advance. 8. Losses: Since railways has a large carrying capacity it faces heavy losses during off seasons and go under-utilized in most of the regions. 9. Administration: Railways apply centralized pattern of administration that result in failure in meeting the personal requirements of the people by local authority as compared to roadways. 10. Unsafe for fragile goods: It has been unsafe for fragile goods like glass due to less control on protective measures. IRCTC Logo 8.4 Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) IRCTC was incorporated in the year 1999 on 27th September as an extended arm to Indian railways with an authorized capital of 250 crore and paid up capital is 160 crore fully subscribed by Ministry of Railways, Government of India. The registered corporate office is situated in New Delhi. It is categorized as Mini Ratna (catergory 1) as central Public sector enterprise. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 123 The core undertakings of the company are Catering & Hospitality, Internet Ticketing, Travel & Tourism and Packaged Drinking Water (Rail Neer) which are accomplished through  Nine Rail Neer bottling plants.  Four Base Kitchens at New Delhi, Howrah, Ahmedabad and Patna.  Five zonal Offices and ten Regional Offices.  One Internet Ticketing Office at New Delhi  One Tourism office at New Delhi. Role of IRCTC 1. To deliver high quality catering services directly and through a network of professionally competitive licensees and franchisees. 2. To be a significant player in the hospitality business and promote tourism across the country especially for all segments of Rail Passengers. 3. To manufacture, supply and market high quality package drinking water (Rail Neer) to passengers in trains, at Railway stations and in the competitive market outside railway properties. 4. To develop and produce bulk food manufacturing facilities like food factories etc. 5. To promote inbound travel mainly correlated to religious tourism thereby enhancing diplomatic initiatives through “people to people contact”. 6. To provide single window solution to its customers including train travel, road travel, air travel, hospitality, hotel accommodation and catering etc. 7. To develop and implement professional approach towards post arrival and pre-departure services at multi-functional complexes, Executive lounge, budget hotels etc. 8. To maintain leading position in internet ticketing, e-commerce and technology for customers interface for railway passengers. 9. To imbibe strong customer friendly, professional and ethical work culture. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

124 Managing Transport Operations 10. To promote private sector participation and expertise to improve quality of products and services. 11. To adopt strong Corporate Governance practices and best and transparent industry practices. 12. To work towards creation of additional infrastructure on Railway or non-railway premises in their mandated line of business with a view to improve the Gross Block. 13. To be a technology-driven customer-oriented Company through constant innovation and human resource development. IRCTC Tour Packages 8.4.1 Services Offered by IRCTC Catering Business IRCTC provides comprehensive catering services at  Railway Catering & Hospitality: Railway catering includes, Departmental Catering, Mobile Catering, Static Catering like Food Plaza, QSFK & Jan Ahar, Executive Lounges, Budget Hotels and Rail Yatri Niwases, Central Kitchen, Base Kitchen, etc.  Non-Railway Catering (NRC) & Hospitality: Non-Railway Catering includes, Institutional Catering, Office Catering, Event Catering and Management, Facility Management, Guest House Management, Housekeeping services, Consultancy Services Food Courts, Kiosks, etc. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 125 E- catering IRCTC through its freely downloaded E-catering app provide food delivery in the train, passengers can order food on train by entering their travel details such as PNR number, Train name, seat/berth number and are quickly delivered with delicious food on the train. Rail Neer - Packaged Drinking Water IRCTC trough it nine rail neer water bottling plant provides an exclusive brand of packaged drinking water which are mandatorily sold at all the railway stations in India. Water Vending Machine (WVM) A novel services provided by IRCTC under which Water Vending Machines are installed at various platforms on railway station that gives the consumers purified, chilled and potable drinking water to the passengers at a mere price of Rs. 5 per litre. It also helps to curb out the plastic pollution due to single used water bottles. IRCTC hotels and Executive Lounges It manages four budget hotels on licensee model which are as follows:  Rail Yatri Niwas―New Delhi Railway Station, Rail Yatri Niwas―Howrah, BNR Hotel ―Puri and BNR Hotel―Ranchi. Internet Ticketing or Next Generation E-ticketing IRCTC with an aim to enhance passenger convenience, they are allowed to book tickets through e-ticketing all the day except from 11:45 pm to 12:20 am through internet or android smart phones. It also provide SMS facility to check the PNR status and live train status. IRCTC has launched loyalty programs like Shubh Yatra for frequent traveller and schemes like Rolling Deposit Scheme. Travel and Tourism IRCTC’s tourism services include value added tour packages train and coach charters, car rentals and even domestic air packages. It provides a bunch of products and services which are beneficial for all types of tourists like Maharajas Express, Bharat Semi-luxury Tourist trains, Rail Tour Packages, Darshan Tourist trains, Land Tour packages, State Special Tourist trains, Charter CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

126 Managing Transport Operations Trains & Coaches, Hill Charters, Educational Tours, Online Air ticketing, Outbound Air packages ,Domestic Air packages Helicopter packages and Corporate Travel Services, On-line hotel booking services, Cab Rental Services, customised packages, etc. Call Centres IRCTC operates a call centre that addresses all the customer calls from all over India and provides required information by them. Customer Satisfaction It conducts customer survey through a third party source with an aim of contionous improvement towards committed guest satisfaction. Expansion and Diversification It is dedicatedly committed towards available opportunities for expansion and diversification by introducing new ventures like institutional catering, events, multi cuisine outlets, wash and change accommodation, etc. Rail Neer Water Bottle IRCTC Rail Connect 8.5 Summary Indian railways have been the integral part of driving Indian economy by its contribution to infrastructural development, agriculture, industry, revenue and providing cheapest and most convenient source of passengers and freight transport in long distance and suburban traffic. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 127 Railways have strived in eliminating isolation between cities and countryside and have played a significant role in propagating innovations and new ideas. They act as a strong medium of nation’s power and integration. It has helped mankind in major way during calamities like social, political, natural, insurgencies, religious disturbances by transporting relief and rescue teams and essential items to the affected areas and save people from sufferings and starvation. IRCTC a Government of India enterprise is a subsidiary of Indian railways which was established with a primary reason of creating a brand image, upgrade, professionalize and manage the catering and hospitality services at stations, on trains and other locations and to promote domestic and international tourism through development of budget hotels, special tour packages, information & commercial publicity and global reservation systems. It has contributed substantially to the revenue of Indian railways by its services and e-commerce taking Indian railways to the apex level of sophisticated professional services. 8.6 Key Words/Abbreviations  IR: Indian Railways  EMU: Electric Multiple Unit  IRCTC: Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd  QSFK: Quick Service Food Kiosks  WVM: Water Vending Machine  NCR: Non Railway Catering.  Garib Rath: Literal meaning is Poor people's chariot is a no-frills air-conditioned train providing subsidized price air-conditioned long-distance travel.  E- catering: Catering services provided in the train for the orders given by bonafide train passengers through freely downloaded E-catering app. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

128 Managing Transport Operations 8.7 Learning Activity 1. Students should prepare a flow chart of the use of services of e-ticketing through mobile app and internet website. 2. Make a chart presentation of the services provided by ICRTC. 3. Make a chart demonstration the evolution of railways. 8.8 Unit End Questions (MCQ and Descriptive) A. Descriptive Types Questions 1. Explain the evolution of Indian railways? 2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Indian railways. 3. Illustrate detail note on Indian railways zone and their contribution in tourist trains. 4. “IRCTC promotes domestic tourism”, comment on this statement. 5. Write down the role of IRCTC. 6. Briefly discuss the services provided by IRCTC. 7. “E-ticketing on IRCTC is an important exercise of a travel agent.” Comment. B. Multiple Choice/Objective Type Questions 1. Which of the following is not under the function of IRCTC. (a) Neer (b) E-catering (c) Freight (d) Customer service CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Introduction to Indian Railway System… 129 2. Indian Railway Association was formed in the year . (a) 1832 (b) 1845 (c) 1947 (d) 1865. 3. India’s first passenger train started on 16th April 1853 which ran between and Thane. (a) Boribander (b) Dadar (c) Borivali (d) Victoria Terminus. 4. WVM gives PURIFIED water to the passengers at a mere price of Rs. per litre. (a) 10 (b) 15 (c) 20 (d) 12. 5. IRCTC internet ticketing office is located at . (a) Mumbai (b) Bangalore (c) New Delhi (d) Chennai 6. IRCTC was incorporated on 27th September . (a) 1999 (b) 2000 (c) 1950 (d) 1989. Ans.: 1. (c), 2. (b), 3. (a), 4. (b), 5. (c), 6. (a). CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

130 Managing Transport Operations 8.9 References Reference Books 1. Bibek Debroy, Sanjay Chadha, Vidya Krishnamurthi Indian Railways (2017): The Weaving of a National Tapestry-Portfolio Penguin Publication 2. Latika Chaudhary 2013 Assistant Professor of Economics at Scripps College ― London School of economics and social science magazine 3. Railways year book 2017-18. 4. Fifteenth Report Committee On Public Undertakings 2016-17 (Sixteenth Lok Sabha) Indian Railway Catering And Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) Ministry Of Railways (16th Dec 2016). Web Resources 1. Indian railways catering and tourism corporation Limited – A Govt. of India enterprise. https://www.irctc.com 2. Indian railways knowledge portal. https://www.kportal.indianrailways.gov.in/index.php /history-of-railways. 3. Train history 2019 www.trainhistory.net 4. “[IRFCA] India's First Railways”. www.irfca.org CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

UNIT 9 RAIL TRANSPORT Luxury trains in India―Palace on wheels, Shivalik express toy train, Eurail― Network, types of passes, etc. Structure: 9.0 Learning Objectives 9.1 Introduction 9.2 Popular International Luxuries trains in the world 9.3 Luxury Trains of India 9.4 Toy Trains 9.5 Eurail 9.6 Summary 9.7 Abbreviation/Keywords 9.8 Learning Activities 9.9 Unit End Exercise (MCQ and Descriptive) 9.10 References 9.0 Learning Objectives After studying this unit, you will be able to  Explain different main luxury tourist trains for tourists across the world.  Analyse the luxury trains in India.  Describe the concept of Eurail CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

132 Managing Transport Operations 9.1 Introduction Definition: Luxury trains can be defined as a premium travel option designed to offer a very long leisurely and comfortable ride that showcases myriad of colours of local environment, social and economic status and evoke an association with history and heritage. Luxury trains are elegantly designed and are spacious with comfortable sleeping, seating areas and bathing spaces. They have well equipped professionally run restaurants and bars. History of Luxury Trains  Until 1865 long distance travel by train was considered as a very uncomfortable experience.  George Pullman introduced first sleeping car – The pioneer, which was further upgraded to a Hotel car that was the first railway carriage with dinning and sleeping areas.  Georges Nagelmackers with an inspiration from Pullman trains founded Compagnie Internationale des wagon-lits created Orient Express in 1883 in Europe followed by a fleet of over 30 luxuries trains which operated in several European destinations. He was designated as a creator of age of luxury train and grand hotels. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Luxury Trains in India… 133 9.2 Popular International Luxuries Trains in the world Venice-Simplon Orient Express, Europe  Season: March to November.  Route: Paris to Istanbul via Budapest and Bucharest.  Packages: Between $1,000- $1,400 per person, per day (all-inclusive). Rovos Rail, Africa  Season: Throughout the year.  Route: Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Victoria Falls, Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania), Swakopmund (Namibia).  Packages: 13,600 rand (Pullman Suites), 20,500 rand (Deluxe Suites), 27,200 rand (Royal Suites) – Double Occupancy Tariff. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada  Season: April to October  Route: Vancouver to Calgary, Vancouver and Jasper, Whistler to Jasper, Seattle to Jasper, Vancouver to Whistler.  Packages: August range from $2,827 for two people traveling in Red leaf service, with regular coach seats, to $5,552 in the full-length-window dome car for double occupancy. Summer fares start at about $100 CAD (about $96), overnight accommodations excluded. Eastern and Oriental Express, Southeast Asia  Season: May to December  Route: Bangkok, River Kwai, Penang, Singapore, Isan Village, Phanom Rung, Chiang Mai, Lampang, Khao Yai National Park, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Tham Kasae Viaduct, Wang Po, Trang  Packages: Start at $2,560 per person Golden Eagle Trans Siberian Express, Russia  Season: May to September. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

134 Managing Transport Operations  Route: Moscow, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk, Lake Baikal, Ulan Ude, Ulaan Baatar, Vladivostok, Khabarovsk.  Packages: more than $15,000 per person for double occupancy in Silver Class. Royal Scotsman, Scotland  Season: April to October.  Route: London, Edinburgh, Keith, Dundee, Glasgow, Perth, Cambridge, York, Ardlui, Scarborough, Cambridge, Oxford, Bath, Chester.  Packages: $1,700–$2,000 per person, per day (all-inclusive). The Chepe, Mexico  Season: Throughout the year  Route: Chihuahua, Cuauhtémoc, Creel, Divisadero, Posada Barrancas, Bauichivo/ Cerocahui, Bauichivo, Temoris, El Fuerte, Los Mochis. (To and Fro Journey).  Packages: First Express – $ 420.00- $ 2,288.00; Economic class – $ 265.00 - $ 1,442.00 The Ghan, Australia  Season: Throughout the year  Route: Adelaide, Alice Springs, Darwin  Packages: Between $700- $2000 9.3 Luxury Trains of India 1. Ministry of tourism has taken various initiatives to promote and boost tourism. One of those are introducing new tourist train services on popular tourist destination circuits with one week’s fully packaged rail travel itinerary including travel, accommodation, catering - on-board and sightseeing. 2. It runs special trains, bharat darshan packages and many more. In fortification to above with an intention to satisfy the needs of elite class and foreign tourists’ luxury trains like Palace on wheel were introduced in collaboration with State Tourism Development Corporation and IRCTC. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Luxury Trains in India… 135 3. Luxury trains in India are missioned in recreating royal and majestic way of travelling. The trains are ornamented in an imperial style offering a range of modern conveniences while taking the tour of popular destinations in India. 4. The luxury segment of train was commenced in India in the year 1982 with the introduction of the royal Palace on wheels intended to cater the foreign tourists and promote Rajasthan tourism. Later was followed by many more in the popular destination circuits. 5. Each luxury trains are a perfect blend of classically crafted components like culture, history, wildlife, heritage and adventure with an apex level of professional services in the lap of luxury. 6. They are characterized with extravagant interiors, appetizing gastronomical fare, splendid ambience, pampering hospitality and comfortable sightseeing that helps in providing unforgettable and everlasting memories to the travellers. Following are the luxurious railways managed by Indian Railways and IRCTC: 1. Maharaja Express Maharaja Express 1. Maharaja Express is the topmost and most expensive in the brigade of Indian luxurious trains. 2. It is also one of the 5 most luxurious trains in the world. 3. The train consists of 23 coaches. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

136 Managing Transport Operations 4. Maharajas’ Express is a fully air-conditioned train consisting of 15 passenger coaches providing four classes of accommodation namely deluxe rooms, junior suites, suites and presidential suites equipped with latest amenities and comforts for a lifetime journey. 5. Other facilities include 2 fine restaurants, a bar car, a conference cum observatory car and a kitchen car. 6. Tourists on board get to experience the richness of the country in the most distinguished way possible. 7. It has been voted ‘World’s Leading Luxury Train’ for the years 2012, 2013 and 2014, consecutively. 8. Maharajas’ Express is operational from October to April. Routes 1. The Heritage of India (Mumbai – Ajanta – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Bikaner – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Delhi) 8 days journey for INR 4,58,280 (approx.). 2. Gems of India (Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi) 4-day journeys for INR 2,57,950 (approx). 3. The Indian Panorama (Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Fatehpur – Sikri – Agra – Gwalior – Orchha – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Lucknow – Delhi) 8 days journey for INR 4,00,660 (approx). 4. Indian Splendour (Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Balasinor – Mumbai) 8 days journey for INR 4,00,660 (approx). 5. Treasures of India (Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi) 4-day journeys for INR 2,57,950 (approx). CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Luxury Trains in India… 137 2. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Royal Rajasthan on Wheels 1. Indian Railways has introduced Royal Rajasthan-on-Wheels in collaboration with Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) during January 2009 with upgraded facilities. 2. Having 14 luxury cabins modeled on erstwhile royal palaces, multi-cuisine restaurants, bars and spa services on board. 3. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is operational from October to March. 4. Route: Delhi – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Chittorgarh – Sawai Madhopur – Jaipur – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Agra – Delhi. 5. Duration of the journey is 7 nights, 8 days. Starting fares per cabin on twin sharing basis:  For international tourists: US$9,450 + 4.5% Service tax.  For Indian tourists: INR 5,67,000 + 4.5% Service tax. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

138 Managing Transport Operations 3. Palace on Wheels 1. Palace on wheels is a pioneer of luxury trains in India and is a royal abode of Kings and Queens on rail. 2. Like its tagline ‘A week in wonderland’, it offers one of the best experiences of royal and luxury on the train. 3. It re-lives the royal legacy of the past. 4. This luxury tourist train is fully vestibule, centrally air-conditioned and completely self- sufficient and comprises 14 saloons, 2 dining cars, a Spa car and a lounge car. 5. Luxurious cabins, exquisite wallpapers, well-stocked bar, gracious hospitality and local culture displayed by artistic use of paintings and handicrafts makes it in true sense a palace on wheels 6. Accolades: It has also been honoured with the PATA award in 1987 and voted as the 4th best luxurious train in the world and best in Asia in 2010. 7. Months of operation for Palace on Wheels are from September to April. Route Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi. Starting fares:  For international tourists: US$3500 + 4.5% Service tax  For Indian tourists: INR 2,10,000 + 4.5% Service tax CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Luxury Trains in India… 139 4. The Deccan Odyssey Deccan Odyssey 1. Deccan Odyssey luxury train is the most ambitious projects of the Indian Railway and Maharashtra State. 2. The Deccan Odyssey has 21 coaches out of which 12 are passenger cars and others are Public Coaches. 3. Deccan Odyssey is designated as a 5-star hotel with a state-of-the-art amenities on wheels that takes you to some fascinating destinations of India. 4. Royal treatment for passengers, palace-like interiors of the cabins, multi-cuisine restaurants, lounges, a conference car, an on-board spa. 5. A US based institution “The society of International Railway Travellers” has reckoned Deccan Odyssey luxury train as one of 25 best trains in the world. 6. For the 3rd consecutive year train has won the Asia’s Best luxury train Award at the 19th World Travel Awards. 7. The Deccan Odyssey operates from October to April and the duration for all 6 routes is 7 nights, 8 days. Routes: 1. Maharashtra Splendor (Mumbai – Nasik – Ellora Cave – Ajanta Caves – Kolhapur – Goa – Ratnagiri – Mumbai). CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

140 Managing Transport Operations 2. Indian Odyssey (Delhi – Sawai Madhopur – Agra – Jaipur – Udaipur – Vadodara – Ellora Caves – Mumbai). 3. Hidden Treasures of Gujarat (Mumbai – Vadodara – Palitana – Sasan Gir – Somnath – Little Rann of Kutch – Modhera – Patan – Nashik – Mumbai). 4. Indian Sojourn (Mumbai – Vadodara – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Agra – Sawai Madhopur – Jaipur – Delhi). 5. Jewels of the Deccan (Mumbai – Bijapur – Aihole – Pattadakal – Hampi – Hyderabad – Ellora Caves – Ajanta Caves – Mumbai). 6. Maharashtra Wild Trail (Mumbai – Aurangabad – Ramtek – Tadoba – Ajanta – Nashik – Mumbai). Starting fares:  For international tourists: US$5,810 + 4.5% Service tax  For Indian tourists: INR 3,71,900 + 4.5% Service tax 5. Golden Chariot The Golden Chariot 1. The Golden Chariot is one of the superb luxury trains in India that takes you to some of the most famous tourist places in South India. 2. Launched in 2008, the Golden Chariot is well known for its impeccable hospitality. 3. The train has AC chambers with royal interiors, bars, restaurants serving multi-variety cuisines, mini gym, Ayurveda spa and other 5-star facilities. Luxury trains. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Luxury Trains in India… 141 4. It was also awarded as ‘Asia’s Leading Luxury Train’ in the year 2013. 5. The Golden Chariot operates from October to March, and duration for both the routes is 7 nights, 8 days. Routes 1. Pride of the South (Bangalore – Kabini – Mysore – Hassan – Hampi – Badami – Goa – Bangalore). 2. Southern Splendour (Bangalore – Chennai – Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry – Thanjavur – Madurai – Thiruvananthapuram – Alleppey – Kochi – Bangalore). The Golden Chariot train price in India per cabin on twin sharing basis for Pride of the South:  For international tourists – US$8,260 + 4.5% Service tax.  For Indian tourists – INR 3,08,000 + 4.5% Service tax. Starting fares per cabin on twin sharing basis for Southern Splendour:  For international tourists – US$9,130 + 4.5% Service tax.  For Indian tourists – INR 3,50,000 + 4.5% Service tax. 6. Royal Orient Train Royal Orient Train 1. Journey by this train is a combination of absolute chivalry and unimaginable opulence. 2. Embarking on Royal Orient Train gives enjoyful and delightful experience of traveling to famous tourist destinations . CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

142 Managing Transport Operations 3. It has royal palatial-style comfortable cabins, well-trained hospitality professionals, multi cuisine restaurant with the “Watering Hole” Bar, spacious baths, a library and almost all facilities in a 5-star hotel. Route Delhi – Chittorgarh/Udaipur – Junagarh/Veraval – Sasan Gir/Dilwara – Palitana- Sarkhej – Ahmedabad- Jaipur- Delhi. The Royal Orient Train operates all year round, and the duration is 7 nights, 8 days. Sightseeings en route are: 1. Delhi – Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate. 2. Chittorgarh/Udaipur – Chittorgarh Fort, City Palace, boating in Lake Pichhola, Shilpgram and Royal Gardens. 3. Junagarh/Veraval – Ashokan Rock EDICT of 3rd Century BC, Darbar Hall Museum, Mausoleum of Nawab. 4. Mahabat Khanji, Somnath Temple on the shore of the Arabian Sea. 5. Sasan Gir National Park – Lion Sanctuary. 6. Dilwara – St. Paul’s church and Mandir Beach. 7. Palitana – Jain Temple atop Shatrunjaya Hills. 8. Ahmedabad – Gandhi Ashram, Calico Museum of Textiles, Sidi Aayyad’s Mosque. 9. Jaipur – Amar Fort and elephant ride, Hawa Mahal, City palace, Jantar Mantar (observatory). Starting fares per cabin per person for one night on twin sharing basis from October- March:  For international tourists: US$200 + 4.5% Service tax  For Indian tourists: INR 7,480 + 4.5% Service tax Starting fares per cabin per person for one night on twin sharing basis from April- September: CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Rail Transport: Luxury Trains in India… 143  For international tourists: US$150 + 4.5% Service tax 7. Fairy Queen Express Fairy Queen Express 1. The Fairy Queen Express is one of the oldest trains providing luxury train journeys in India. 2. Energized by the oldest serving steam locomotive built in around 1855. 3. Fairy Queen has its own charm as it rambles through to Alwar in Rajasthan. 4. Fairy Queen has been mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records and a recipient of National Tourism Award. Route Delhi – Alwar – Sariska- Alwar – Delhi. Operates from October to March on 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month. Duration of the journey is 1 night, 2 days. Signtseeing at its two destination are:  Sariska– Lake Palace, Sariska National Park  Alwar– Alwar Museum Starting fares for full package  (Two-way train journey + sightseeing/stay at Sariska for an adult) CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

144 Managing Transport Operations  INR 8,600 + Government taxes/Service taxes 8. Heritage On Wheels Heritage on Wheels 1. Heritage on wheels is the oldest luxury train of India. 2. It showcases the rich traditions and culture of Rajasthan which has been preserved and followed from generations to generations in authentic way. 3. It beautiful interiors teleport a tourist to the golden era of the state. 4. It is one of the most expensive trains in India and definitely a choice for once in lifetime for everyone. 5. The imperially designed restaurant elegantly serving authentic local and continental cuisine creates reek of the royal vibes. 6. The luxury and lavishness on board makes the tourist have a feel of being a King or a queen. Route Jaipur – Bikaner – Tal Chhapar and Shekhawati – Jaipur – Depart Popular destinations for 3 nights and 4 days are: Bikaner: Junagarh Fort, Haat, Camel Safari, Lalgarh Palace, National Research Centre, Tal Chhapar & Shekhawati: Laxmangarh Fort, Goenka Haveli, Sikar, Churu, Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Jaipur: Hawa Mahal, Amber Palace, City Palace, Jantar Mantar. CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)