Tamil Nadu Express

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Tamil Nadu Express or the T.N. Express is a passenger train route of the Indian Railways. The train was first started in 7th August, 1976 by then Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi. It was a weekly train that ran between Chennai and New Delhi. 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 2184 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's 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 67 km/h while the average speed of some top superfast trains in India is more than 70 km/h. currently the schedule of the train is arranged in such a way that it takes two nights and a single day.