KOLKATA: India's first Rajdhani Express, the iconic train noted for its speed
and luxury, turned 50 on Sunday. Over the years it has undergone sweeping changes
to provide comfortable journey to rail passengers.
In its golden jubilee run, the Kolkata-New Delhi Rajdhani Express chugged out
of the Howrah station decorated with flowers. It was the first fully-air conditioned,
high- speed train, when launched, covering 1,450 km in 17 hours and 20 minutes.
A cake cutting ceremony marked the flagging off of the red and yellow train
on the jubilee day from Howrah. A stamp was also released on the occasion. Some
special dishes were also served to the passengers.
The first Rajdhani Express began with two power cars, five AC chair cars,
one dining car and one AC first class coach.
