Western Railway has rolled out a four-day special train from Rajkot to Somnath, greeted by thunderous ‘Har Har Mahadev’ calls that reverberated through the station precincts, signaling a major boost for pilgrims.
Timed perfectly for the devotional season, this service responds to the massive influx of worshippers drawn to Somnath Temple’s divine aura. As one of India’s holiest sites, the temple sees unprecedented crowds, and the new train promises efficient transport from inland Rajkot.
Operating daily from today, the train leaves Rajkot at 10:30 AM sharp, traversing scenic routes via Gondal, Jetalsar, and Porbandar line stations to arrive at Somnath around 6:45 PM. Comprising 18 bogies with a mix of general, sleeper, and chair car options, it caters to diverse budgets.
The flag-off ceremony was a spectacle of faith, with priests, locals, and officials joining in prayers and aarti. ‘Enhanced connectivity strengthens our spiritual heritage,’ noted the railway spokesperson, outlining plans for more such runs if demand persists.
Key features include priority seating for senior citizens, clean washrooms, and e-catering services. This initiative aligns with the government’s push for pilgrim-friendly infrastructure in Gujarat.
As chants of devotion lingered, the train chugged out, carrying hopes and blessings to the Jyotirlinga. Rail enthusiasts and devotees alike hail it as a timely lifeline, poised to transform travel dynamics for Shravan yatras.