Ahmedabad-Ekta Nagar steam heritage train: Gujarat's 1st heritage train to Statue of Unity is beautiful -10 must-know facts​

Ekta Nagar-Ahmedabad heritage train: PM Narendra Modi flagged off Gujarat’s first heritage train on October 31, on Sardar Patel's birth anniversary. The new tourist train between Ahmedabad and Ekta Nagar will facilitate movement of tourists to the world’s highest statue - the Statue of Unity. We take a look at some salient features of the new heritage train.

The Ekta Nagar-Ahmedabad heritage train is a MEMU train, but to give it a heritage feel, its front has been fashioned like a steam engine. The exterior walls are adorned with PU paint and theme-based vinyl wrapping, resonating with the heritage theme. According to a railway senior official, it will transport passengers to the bygone era of steam engine locomotives with its unique heritage appearance.

The Ekta Nagar-Ahmedabad heritage train has panoramic windows with roller blinds. Sumit Thakur, Chief PRO of Western Railway told ANI that the special heritage train is an added attraction for tourists exploring the Statue of Unity. It offers passengers a journey reminiscent of the steam engine locomotive era with its unique heritage theme.

The Executive Chair cars have a seating capacity of 48 each with provision of mobile charging point and USB port each for all passengers. The double seat has a reclining mechanism with foot rest & in-built bottle holder. There are sunk in snack tables provided in armrest pocket.

In addition to air-conditioned executive chair car coaches, the train has a dedicated restaurant car which offers fine dining options. The air-conditioned restaurant dining car features teak wood dining tables and cushioned seats.

The interior panels are crafted from natural teak veneered plywood, and warm, natural white lighting creates a unique ambiance. The train also features GPS-based public address and passenger information systems, luggage racks similar to Tejas Express coaches, and electrically operated automatic compartment sliding doors.

Ekta Nagar-Ahmedabad heritage train: Another distinctive feature of the new heritage train is its flameless pantry equipped with stainless steel, electrically operated equipment and enhanced interiors, providing passengers with a luxurious experience.

The new heritage train also has modular toilets with high-quality fittings such as Korean wash basin, automatic hygiene and odour control device, high capacity blower fans for air exhaust etc.

Ekta Nagar-Ahmedabad heritage train fare: With 144 seats available, the fare for the train, excluding meals, is Rs 885. The Ekta Nagar railway station provides a connection to the Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue.

Officials have described the heritage train as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, offering travelers a unique experience that blends history, modern amenities, and a glimpse into the bygone era of Indian railways. This initiative is expected to become a new attraction for tourists and enthusiasts, combining the charm of traditional steam engine locomotives with the marvels of modern engineering.