New double-decker train between Tirupati, Visakhapatnam

​Tirupati: Prominent spiritual centre Tirupati got one more train linking it with Vizag, aimed at improving connectivity across the State.

Forest and Environment Minister Bojjala Gopalakrishna Reddy flagged off the new Double Decker tri-weekly AC Superfast Express No. 22708 at a colorful function held at railway station, here on Friday. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister for Railways Suresh Prabhu also took part in the programme via video conference.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that this new train would be very useful as it touches as many as 8 districts, besides easing congestion in the existing trains running between Tirupati and Vizag.

“The train will substantially meet the demands of the pilgrims and increase connectivity with Vijayawada and the capital region.

SCR assistant general manager AK Gupta said the train offers cost-effective and convenient overnight connectivity between the two destinations covering a distance of 732 km.

The train No 22708 Tirupati-Viskhapatnam AC Double-Decker will leave Tirupati on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.50 pm and arrive in Visakhapatnam the following days at 11 am.

In the return direction train No 22707 will leave Visakhapatnam on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 10.25 pm and reach Tirupati at 11.30 am the next day.

Chittoor MP N Sivaprasad, Tirupati MLA Suguna, MLC G.Srinivasulu, TTD board member G Bhanuprakash Reddy were also present.