Tamil Nadu Express

The Tamil Nadu Express or T.N. Express is a passenger train route of the Indian Railways. The train was first started on 7 August 1976 by then Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi. It was a weekly train that ran between Chennai and New Delhi [ [http://www.hampi.in/tamilnadu-express.shtml Map showing Tamilnadu Express route] ] .

The train became an instant hit. The halt pattern of this train was impeccable. First Vijayawada, Nagpur, Bhopal, Jhansi and then final arrival at New Delhi. It was the fastest non-air conditioned train and it still holds that reputation.

The introduction of this train was a big reliever for the classic Grand Trunk Express. So much that soon all the neighbouring states wanted a train by their name. Andhra Pradesh Express, Karnataka Express and Kerala Express were introduced this way.

The TN today covers the distance of 2,184 km in about 33 hours. Adding to which there is a Rajdhani between Chennai and New Delhi.

This train also has the reputation of being the longest train in India; it shares this distinction with the Chennai - Hyderabad Charminar Express.

In summers it is common to see 8 AC coaches added to this train, by this way it becomes 3/4th a Rajdhani Express (which minimum ply with 10 A/C coaches.

It usually runs packed on all days. Its average speed is around Convert|67|km/h|mph|abbr=on while the average speed of some top superfast trains in India is more than Convert|70|km/h|mph|abbr=on.currently the schedule of the train is arranged in such a way that it takes two nights and a single day.

Passengers prefer this train for many reasons:

* Has the minimum number of stoppages (Agra, Jhansi, Gwalior, Bhopal, Nagpur, Itarsi, Ballarsha, Warangal, Vijayawada
* Though called Tamil Nadu Express, has only one stoppage at Tamil Nadu (CHENNAI)
* Until recently, the train had a good pantry. But present IRCTC contractor forces people to consume bread, butter, jam, & other packed foods, leaving people to long for local food

References

* cite web
title = Tamil Nadu Express
url=http://www.india9.com/i9show/Tamil-Nadu-Express-59935.htm
accessdate = 2007-11-03

ee also

*Famous trains
*Grand Trunk Express
*Chennai Rajdhani
*Nellai Express
*Pallavan Express
*Rockfort Express
*Kovai Express
*Pandian Express
*Pearl City Express
*Cheran Express

External links

* [http://www.tamilnaduexpress.com Quick Details on Tamil Nadu Express- Timetable, Schedules and Discuss]
* [http://indiarailinfo.com/train/1612 Tamil Nadu Express] at India Rail Info