--::--:: My maiden ADI-BCT AC DD Express (12932) journey ::--::--
So, finally I got a chance to travel by Double Decker Express. In the last two months, travelled to Ahmedabad on and off, but couldn’t resist the charm of Shatabdi ever. This time, in my journey towards Ahmedabad, my 4 year old kid saw the DD passing and got charmed with the different looking coaches of this train. He made me promise to travel by this train in our return journey.
On 18th March, I got WL 42/43/44 which ended up being...
more... settled down at WL 7/8/9 when the chart was prepared. So, I checked the availability on 19th March at 3:00 am in the morning on 18th and was surprised to see the 174 seats available. I booked the tickets immediately. Got the confirmation for the seat numbers 96/97/98 in Coach C10.
We reached the ADI station at 5:45 AM on 19th May. My kid was super excited to see the Yellow-Red beautiful livery and for the first time in his and even my life, witnessed this Double Decker arrangement. While reading through different blogs earlier, there was some apprehension regarding the leg space. I should call myself lucky that the seat we got were the middle seats in the Upper Floor. So, there were no issues with the leg space.
The train departed the ADI Platform 7 bang on time (6:00 AM) while we were having our “POHA” and Tea bought from the platform. It was a very smooth pickup and acceleration. The display at both exits was reflecting up to date information about the Train/Next Station/Approximate Distance/Speed which was matching with my GPS accurately.
The compartment was approximately 70% occupied when the train left ADI and the chart showed 100% occupancy from the forthcoming stations.
A group of Sales-Executives from Nippon was sitting on the other 7 middle seats facing each other. All were jolly good fellows and were pretty excited about their company sponsored Goa Trip.
Train crossed Nadiad and Anand Junctions on time. The food catering service by “Meals on Wheels” is very good. I must say that it’s hard to get such good tea in trains as served by the folks here with the claim to return the money if you don’t like it. (HAHA)
We reached Vadodara at 7:42 AM, late by mere two minutes but multiple times, the display and my GPS showed that train was running between 115-122 KMPH.
Bathrooms were as clean as the travellers can keep them. Soap dispenser was filled with soap though mixed with enough water still solving the purpose.
Later, the train reached all the stations on or before time. “Meals on Wheels” guys were great in offering enough choices for everyone. Cutlets, Idlis, Paranthas, Cheese Sandwiches, Veg Pulav, Khamman, Wafers, Biscuits, Tea, Coffee, Soup, Peanuts and whatnot.
Trust me, I find the quality of food better than the food served in Shatabdi though we need to pay here.
Train entered the Mumbai Suburbs before time and was stopped at Bhayandar for two-three minutes and people living in the proximity used the opportunity. We reached BVI on 12:14 PM, two minutes before time.
Was shocked to see the maddening rush from so called educated urban people to get off the train. Later I realized that as it stops here for just two minutes and most of the people get down, it always happens.
I thoroughly enjoyed my journey. I have heard lots of criticism of this train but I liked the overall experience. May be the great company with the young executives, good food and excitement of my kid made it a wonderful experience.
Comfort – 7/10 (For the other seats, it might be 5 or 6)
Food – 9/10
Punctuality – 10/10
Cleanliness – 7/10 (Water finished in washrooms after crossing Vapi)
