The Deccan Odyssey luxury train service, operated by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, resumed operations in a new look on Wednesday. Tourism minister Chhagan Bhujbal joined passengers on the maiden journey of the renovated luxury train, from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus here.
The train was launched in January 2004 and travelled mostly within the state, catering mainly to foreign tourists. However, after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, the bookings dwindled. "After the terrror attacks, we had around 1,000 to 1200 bookings cancelled," MTDC Joint Managing Director Avinash Dhakne said. On Wednesday, it carried about 80 passengers, including tourists from the US, Britain, Switzerland, Holland and Australia. The train embarked on a weeklong journey to New Delhi, where another batch of tourists will board the train for the return journey.
The MTDC decided to fully renovate the train and re-launch it on a pan-India basis. It boasts of regal interiors, the best of food and drinks, conference rooms, televisions in each suite, dining rooms, lounges, a fully-equipped gym with massage and spa and a library.
Besides the Mumbai-New Delhi-Mumbai trip which would take a fortnight, the train will also ply within the state. "We are eyeing destinations like Shirdi and are planning a special package for it," Dhakne added.