Hostesses to serve you on new superfast train to Agra

With New Delhi-Agra semi-high speed Gatiman Express to be flagged off soon, the Railways plan to replicate airline-style hospitality, with hostesses on board the train.

The Railways, as part of an image makeover exercise, has decided to introduce train hostesses on the New Delhi-Agra Gatiman Express, that will be first in the country to run at 160 kmph.

The Gatiman Express is likely to be flagged off next month. Railway minister Suresh Prabhu may announce some special features of the first semi-high speed train when he presents the Rail Budget February 25.

It will have a high-powered emergency braking system, automatic fire alarm, GPS-based passenger information system and sliding doors in coaches. There will be live TV. We are trying to match flight services,” said a senior railway official.

The fare is likely to be 25 per cent higher than for Shatabdi trains. Catering will also be significantly better.