In the midst of the number of initiatives that the railways is reportedly planning to take, to enhance travel comfort, I wish to relate my travel experience of a recent journey from Bangalore to New Delhi by 1AC in Karnataka Express.
1. Should anyone encounter rats in one's coupe, do not be surprised; I was.
2. The bell switch in the coupe meant to summon the attendant displays a red light in the corridor when pressed. It remained red. No attendant appeared.
3. Water in the washrooms was a scarce commodity. My wife consoled me; it has not rained !
4. The food being served by the private caterer, shortlisted through tendering by the railways, was tolerable. It is another thing that one could bend the plastic spoon 360 degrees ! I would advise the railways to engage someone from a dhaba along any highway to provide them consultancy. Water is served with meals and the traveller is not expected to buy cold drinks in lieu.
5. When the TT permits a non ticket holder to enter and travel in a 1st AC compartment he is compromising security.
6. During the 36 hr journey no one came to empty the garbage bin !
