I took the train 06518 from Hindupur to Doddaballapur in general after finishing some work in Hindupur. Here's what I noticed. Arrived in Hindupur earlier on the SBC-SSPN MEMU - no seats, had to stand the whole way. But on this train there were some empty seats when it left Hindupur. Got to the station around 3 pm, an hour prior to departure. Saw the same train I came on in the morning just lying there since then. The loco was a new KJM WAG9HC from February 2024. The GN and SL coaches were clean. The train left exactly on time and quickly hit 100 kmph - pretty good for an unreserved train. Passed a bunch of other trains on the way, even the Vande Bharat expresses. A light drizzle in Makali Ghats lifted my mood. Vendors hopped on at Hindupur and Gauribidanur selling water and snacks, but I passed on buying any. Arrived at Doddaballapur right on schedule. Was unsure about taking this train at first, but it turned out better than expected.