Yet Another Brush with Delay, The Ranchi Rajdhani Travelogue

       All these thirty one years in parts of North East with occasional deputations and sabbaticals in Delhi had made Akash a stranger to his own place of ‘settlement'. In the first nineteen years of service irrespective of distance or job commitments, he would make it a point to visit his adopted hometown of Ranchi,once a year. Gradually when the responsibility of his family of procreation increased manifold, the gap between two visits too shot up to an average of two years. In December 2014 he planned a trip by train after good 3.5 years. He was, therefore, looking forward to maximum gains from a short stay.

He had no qualm to undertake a journey by the Second Class Sleeper but his onward journey was so time consuming apart from the physical strain that he succeeded in managing a ticket by 3 AC in Ranchi Rajdhani Express, per kind courtesy Dipy Dipy, his dynamic ‘Obama’ oriented Nephew. Latter was ever willing to extend help with a smile, even at odd hours, thanks to his years of experience and contacts in the ticketing business.

Having been a victim of inordinate delay of train barely 60 hours ago, Akash was not looking forward to another nightmare, that too concerning a prestigious train. Till 16.35 hrs on 28th December things appeared normal. Prior to leaving his 'thin and slim' elder brother's place he appeared so confident that he did not feel the necessity to re-check the actual departure time of 17.50 hrs. His joys of having spent three wonderful days in the soothing company of Brothers, Sisters, Bhabhis, College day friends and other relatives simply vanished in the thin air when it was learnt that his return journey too was going to be affected by the delay factor.

The Compulsion Factor

12453 Rajdhani was going to depart at 22.00 hrs that is almost five hours behind schedule. The Mother Earth simply vanished below his feet for a moment .But being a die-hard North East Man, he was not going to be cowed down so easily. In the early Nineties, at NJP Station, he would not be surprised if the promised reservation was not confirmed. Holding his Tiny Tot in lap, he would be too happy if the train actually would arrive from the then disturbed pockets of far flung corners of the North East. 'Beggars could not be Choosers, to say the least', he would console himself. 

Looking at the whole thing sportingly, Akash uttered to himself 'There was going to be one difference as far as quantum of suffering was concerned. Rajdhani due to its rank, name and fame was bound to be less cumbersome. Lesser number of passengers and one's location in A.C. class too were going to be comforting factors’, he tried to convince himself in the true Indian spirit of Marta Kya Nahin Karta? (A man destined to die was bound to tolerate everything).

Auto Experience

Consequent upon spending four hours without any fixed agenda, Akash looked for a Rickshaw or its Auto version. Having failed in his attempt and carried his 20 kg. load for ten minutes, a good Samaritan in form of an IIT aspirant came to his rescue. It was close to the public ground, M.S.Dhoni was supposed to have honed up his Cricket skills before he became a force to reckon with. Two pieces of luggage thus reached the post office point. After a wait of 15 minutes, a shared Auto emerged from nowhere. There was no time to negotiate fare. Akash was bound to be cheated and Dipy Dipy was not going to extend any help. Latter did ring up four times to feed correct information pertaining to the delayed train. What a verbal duel took place between the Auto Driver and a Bengali couple. Latter was not willing to pay an extra Rs.10/ per head and the Driver threatened him with dire consequences. The usual threat to report the matter to Police figured in the heated discussions. True to Indian conditions, the unwanted event drew a small crowd but no mediation came forward. All said and done, the whole thing delayed two station bound passengers by 15 minutes. At one stage Akash got down and decided to walk the rest of half km distance. Good sense prevailed at last and the journey was resumed. Whether the couple paid according to their own sweet will, remained a mystery. The driver, on the other hand, claimed a 'victory' in his own inimitable style. He did not even check the amounts paid by Akash and a fellow subdued Muffler-covered passenger, as per their assessment of situation. 

At Station, Business As Usual

Having reached the Ranchi station for the second time in less than five hours, Akash heaved a sigh of relief. There was no point to go to Enquiry, as all other trains except his had presumably departed. The earlier rescheduled time of 22.00 hrs was confirmed from a well behaved Railway Official. Akash made no mistake in conveying this and his safe 'arrival' both to B.C. (he was almost in tears) and Dipy Dipy. O yes, how could Jaya, his wife be deprived of this vital piece of information? She, apparently, gave her moral support and conveyed the usual 'all the best' to her visibly shaken hubby. In her heart to heart, however, she was a bit sure that this train was not going to deviate much from its changed departure time. Same logic worked-Rajdhani was going to be more reliable even in extreme foggy conditions. While talking goody Akash never mentioned to his folks that Ranchi station was roofless for the cold night and in view of choked scenario at all the waiting halls, he was going to face tough situation for the next two hours. Though his stomach was full, gulping of two huge South Indian Vadas(Rs !0/each)gave him the required relaxation. He could never make it to AC Waiting room on the 1st Floor despite being guided meticulously twice by the Railway employees.

B-4, The Temporary Abode

It was ten to 22.00 hours when the golden time of entry into B-4 compartment came. Unlike at Anand Vihar Station five days ago, it was a bright setting with less number of people. Deputy Train Suptd. (DTS) later informed about mass cancellations. Before train began moving, orders for late Dinner were taken from Akash and Dhiraj. Latter introduced himself as a Software Consultant. His age and appearance however, defied his qualification and years supposedly put in. Before the train picked up speed, Akash's relatives were informed to go to bed and promises were made to re-establish contact the next morning depending upon connectivity factor. In the meanwhile, Amit and Sumit Wilson, two Engineering students proceeding to Delhi by Rajdhani for the first time were going to be denied their meals but for timely 'interference' by Akash. Poor chaps did not know that Rajdhani tickets had meals included in them. Upon eating ,he and Dhiraj explained the intricacies as also cautioned them to be careful from some ‘Sharks’ in Delhi, since it was going to be their maiden journey to the exalted capital of the country, which also had the dubious distinction of being the crime capital of the 'democratic country'. By the time it was 23.30 hours, it was all quiet in the B-4 Bogie. Expected impact of A.C. was not felt. One of the bearers had to be reminded as the AC attendant was conspicuous by his absence. DTS was, therefore, requested to have checked the unhealthy practice of cleaning of Food Trays at the Wash Basins meant for the passengers. He was also urged to get resolved the issue of water logging inside at least two ‘modern’ toilets. If situation did not improve, formal complaint was to be lodged, he was cautioned.

The Day Two

The second day began at 6.15 am when Aakash suddenly woke up after a reasonably good sleep. The train was moving slowly due to continued fog. When no tea was in sight, Aakash managed to get a Dip tea cup from the adjacent B-3 compartment. He was good in cajoling the working class. Before he could take a sip, the train stopped all of a sudden and remained in the static state for 15 minutes. Villagers outside were seen cleaning their teeth by using Datwan. Some of them were seen attending to the call of nature in 'open setting'. From their expressions one could make out the intensity of cold. Between 7.10 and 7.25 am when the train passed through Sonnagar and Dehri- On-Sone, Aakash was reminded of his childhood spent at Dehri-on-Sone. Including him, six of them had to be looked after by his over burdened Parents from the meagre family income. To add to their miseries, once a cow of good breed was purchased and 'lost'. Later it was found grazing at one of the islands of the gigantic Sone River. Its recovery naturally led to a celebration.

Visibility in the meanwhile began playing hide and seek. It was not beyond 40 metres. It was now almost certain that train was going to surpass the expected arrival time at N.Delhi by at least 8 to 10 hrs. When Dipy Dipy, therefore, called   to find out welfare, Aakash could understand his logic behind booking a ticket by Rajdhani and thus spending a day extra in the process. Fog or no fog, a Rajdhani was bound to get precedence over others. The passengers instead of appreciating the guts of the Driver began cursing him for the further delay. They simply forgot that beyond a certain point, one could not fight nature. Even the P.M's flight could not take off the previous day due to dense fog which made him miss the oath taking ceremony of the first non-tribal CM of Jharkhand.  

Scenario Inside & Outside

At Karwandiya station, Fog became dense but the train kept maintaining its normal speed. A distinct layer of dew was visible when green grass appeared before the eyes. Just before 8 am, delayed cup of tea together with Marie biscuits was served. Those still sleeping, such as, Dhiraj and Wilson Brothers too got up. But the Kashmiri looking young man was still enjoying his well deserved slumber at Berth No.32.Aakash decided to charge his Cell. His attempts, however, to contact his relatives did not succeed. Near Shivsagar station, the speed of train picked up momentum to go down again due to intensity of Fog. Finding no engagement, some of the passengers decide to rush to toilet while others pull up their blankets yet again.

At 8.30 am, yellow Mustard fields appear in the vicinity of Bhabhua Road. That meant train was still in Bihar. When visibility improved, white Cranes were seen flying in groups. Some religious flags too were seen fluttering here and there. When Karamnasha river was crossed at 8.50 hrs Dhiraj Kumar, the Software Chap got up for the second time. His Internet reading revealed that the train was now 9 hrs behind schedule. Since the day was becoming clearer, more people, cattle, vehicles and activities were noticeable. Cow dung cakes, Potato fields, Brick Kilns and yellow fertile soil could be seen on both the sides of the line. While some passengers switched on to songs on their Cells, a solitary man was seen defecating in the open, perhaps being oblivious of the Swachch Bharat campaign of the new PM. A huge hoarding of Amul Macho Underwear greeted the onlookers at the deserted Sayeed Raja Station. A red temple amidst the green fields, at the same time, was seen making a definite statement.

Aakash was pleasantly surprised at getting his first call of the day at 9 am from his wife. She did not appear perturbed at the delay any longer. Rather, the conversation centred around the revised expected arrival time at N.Delhi. After disconnecting, Aakash settled for a Veg. Breakfast since the late Non-veg. Dinner was not exactly palatable, the night before.

Mughal Sarai Station & Changing Norms

Twenty minute halt at 9.20 hrs at the historic Mughal Sarai station turned out to be a good break for everyone. The fruit and snacks vendors were no longer clad in Dhotis or Pajamas or torn Lungis. Most of them would make their unique sales statements while wearing latest Jeans and Jackets. The passengers too hardly use the Coolies in this age of bags having wheels. They travel light as well compared to a decade ago. When Aakash and Dhiraj venture to take a stroll, a fruit seller having delicious Guavas, Apples and Oranges decides to rush to another platform to grab business from another incoming train. Two of his friends extend him help in lifting his container over his head in a professional manner. His tight Jeans and latest Sports shoe ensure his smooth flight on the stairs.

Soon there was a signal that Aakash's train was due to start. Once it began moving, some began blaming bad network for being unable to get connected to their near and dear ones. Aakash advised Dhiraj- 'You do not miss anything if there was no network. In good old days, people never interacted with their family while travelling and thus the wait for the 'first' letter subsequent to arrival was considered sacrosanct.’ This generation gap talk continued between the two when the train began cruising at an estimated speed of 80 kmph and passed through Dagmagpur around 10.20 am. Children were seen rushing to their schools in their colourful uniforms. A soothing song from the Cell phone breaks the monotony- 'Tujhe Dekha To Jana Sanam, Pyar Hota Hai Deewana Sanam'.

Feeling energised, Aakash tries his relatives and friends for the 5th or 6th time but he is unlucky. He presumes, therefore, that his wife may have conveyed the desired message. Dhiraj in the meanwhile, hides himself yet again in the warmth of the blanket. The Kashmiri looking man wakes up at last and upon a quick wash persuades the bearers to serve him a delayed Breakfast. Wilson Brothers keep getting calls from their worried Father at Ranchi and Carefree Mama at Delhi. It is observed that the other end is always disturbed whenever delay becomes prominent. Two families on the either side of the Cabin in the meanwhile, struggle to keep their children occupied. Those on laps occasionally cry.

View Around Mirzapur

Near Jhingura station, good Social Forestry and Guava Plantations are seen. It becomes a Sunny day at last. While series of Pucca houses are seen close to Mirzapur Station (10.30 hours) the hoarding of Hakim Rahmani steals the thunder on the boundary walls. He offers solutions to all the ailments-secret diseases, Backaches, Marital disorders, Cancer and what not?

The old Regal building of Mirzapur station took one back to the bygone era. While the train picks up momentum again, a lovely arched bridge over a rivulet dazzles in Sun. Fog comes and goes. A herd of Sheep, Fish Tanks, Railway Quarters under construction, women grass cutters, children playing Cricket with makeshift bats, villagers conversing on Cells, Cranes flying and touching the ground, Washerwomen engrossed in their routine jobs etc. no longer appear unusual for Aakash. Near Vindhyachal Station, therefore, he tries to break the ice with the Kashmiri looking man. While the Wilson Brothers too desire a Non-Veg. Breakfast at this late juncture, loud voices of two women conversing in the neighbourhood is heard.

Ways To Pass Time

Between 10.50 and 11.15 am Aakash hit upon a brilliant idea of deleting messages and unwanted snaps from his Cell. Thus not only phone became lighter but some of the memories too were refreshed. When his attention is drawn yet again to the scenes outside, he is pleased to see good breed of cows, crows, Crow kind of large black birds, Neelkanth etc. At Meja Road the train stops for two minutes to pick up momentum again. Most of the passengers do not seem perturbed any longer due to delay factor. It was perhaps fete accompli. When Sun appears and goes off, birds too look affected. Another herd of Sheep is seen on the highway. Pillars of North Central Railway are clearly visible, more so, near Bhirpur station.

Dhiraj breaks the silence by announcing that the train was likely to reach Kanpur by 2 pm and Delhi by 7 pm. He is unable to converse with anyone but succeeds in browsing through. Soon the bearers of the Pantry Car inform that Lunch will be served even when train was getting further delayed. It relieved those looking for alternatives. No Non-Veg. food was however, possible. Hats off to the Indian spirits, advance preparations had begun the previous night. A newspaper too was promised at Kanpur.

Historic Allahabad

At 12 noon the DTS at last arrived with his Complaint Book. Aakash did not miss the opportunity. He made six valuable suggestions. Latter became more polite on discovering former's 'connections'. While he insisted on promised arrival of train at N.Delhi at 6.30 pm, the general consensus hovered around 8 pm. Between 12.20 and 12.30 hours, views of Naini and Allahabad were seen but Sangam was under dense Fog cover. Even in this inclement weather some devout passengers were seen throwing coins into almost dormant Yamuna River. While at Allahabad, Dhiraj enjoyed another cup of tea, a tall man holding a Ruck sack was seen rushing towards toilet. Each time he had a 'desire', he would not fail to carry his bag along. Maybe he was carrying some valuables inside or was too possessive about the Grey bag.

 Speed of Train & Gossip, Both Fluctuate

Between 13.00 and 13.20 hrs, the speed of the train was worth enjoying. Aakash had this privilege near the gate. While he estimated it to be 100 to 120 kmph, Dhiraj showed it at 98 as per his 'Net' reading. At Bidanpur, however, it slowed down as usual to pick up speed again. At this moment, a new group of conversationists enter the 'fray'-R.S. Pande, an old Teacher and a young Schoolgirl who later turned out to be a student of B.Com. Hons. Once this Chitchat Kumari (CCK) will begin talking on Cell, it would not end so easily. Not only she possessed a commanding voice, she would convince her Father, Brother or friend at the other end with her logical arguments. Occasionally Pande’s voice will be also heard, to get submerged sooner than expected. Strangely, his son in Delhi insisted or suggested that he should bring his own blanket for spending night with him.

By 14.00 hours, the average speed of train came down to 68 kmph. Prior to reaching Kanpur, simple Veg. Lunch was served. Aakash managed to get a packet of Curd, thanks to his being friendly with a bearer. While the train halted at Kanpur between 14.50 and 15.20 hours, newspaper, as promised was delivered. Times of India and Indian Express had many tales to convey. It was a good change for everyone. After glancing through the newspaper, Aakash was able to talk to his Brother, Wife and Nephew They seemed now more perturbed. The Driver had been alerted in the meanwhile for the late night duty.

Firozabad: Long Halt & Courtesies Extended By Railways

By 16.00 hrs, Sri Singh, DTS once again came to find out the welfare of the passengers. It was a rare gesture. He was taking Aakash seriously now and promised to act on complaints soon. By 17.00 hours, some snacks were served out of turn and a promise was made for serving Dinner as well. That meant that train was destined to cross 21.00 hour barrier. Close to 17.30 hours, after crossing Etawah some more family members of other occupants of B-4 could be contacted on Cell. When Firozabad came around 17.58 hours, N.Delhi was still estimated to be 240 kms away.

Easy access to Internet in the train made CCK more audible and interesting. Thanks to it, the youngsters knew exact arrival and departure times, distance, average speed and what not? CCK, after having finished talking to Pandeji began giving sermons about Delhi and Haryana to Captain Solomon, a young Army officer coming from Andaman& Nicobar Islands .He would pretend as if he was completely ignorant and would therefore enjoy every tip of CCK. It was soon learnt that her Father's train from MP had already reached Old Delhi Railway Station and that he was proceeding to New Delhi Station to meet his 'darling' daughter. In the same way, Dhiraj Kumar's friend too had reached Sarai Rohilla Station from Jaipur and he was going to accompany Dhiraj to Maneshar in Haryana even at this unearthly hour.

When halt of train became longer, first a minor Engine fault was reported. Soon it became a major fault, necessitating replacement of the Engine itself. A long halt of 2.5 hours, therefore, forced the authorities to serve Vegetable Biriyani and Raita to all the passengers. It happened after formal closing of the service. No doubt, it led to liberal tips to bearers from the benevolent passengers. 

Close To Destination

Akash narrated these developments to his folks at home on Cell. They will not feel thrilled but were not reassured either. They all felt that the train had to restart and move without any further halt towards Aligarh and Ghaziabad. At the stroke of midnight, it did reach Ghaziabad. A sigh of relief was seen on the faces of tired passengers. But yet again it was in static condition for another 20 minutes. The spirits that were pepping up, got dampened. Between Ghaziabad and Shivaji Bridge, it took unjustifiably an hour. As if this was not enough, the halt at Shivaji Bridge lasted 15 minutes. Maybe, the earmarked platform was not free. Some really tired souls, therefore, got down by mistake, to re-board the train.

Flow of Emotions 

By this time Jaya, Dipy Dipy and Anand, the Driver had arrived at Platform No. 16.The train, however, got 'parked' at Platform No.17, sharp at 1.50 hours, fifteen hours behind schedule. A journey of 1341 kms, thus got culminated. The passengers in general felt elated and satisfied. But no one had the time and courtesy to praise the efforts of the Driver, Guard and their dedicated team, who made it possible in the toughest of situations. Scenes of union and re-union were enacted all over the platform and newly built arrival building. Without bothering to know the exact circumstances, the 'receivers' kept asking-"How could and why even a train like Rajdhani be delayed by 15 hours ?.

Within no time, Aakash, Dhiraj, Wilson Brothers, Kashmiri Gentleman, CCK, Pandeji, Capt. Solomon and the Rucksackwala, all mingled swiftly with further intensifying fog and darkness of the Night. ONE COULD NOT MAKE OUT IF A JOURNEY HAD LOGICALLY COME TO AN END OR IT HAD ITSELF BECOME A DESTINATION. Nonetheless, Aakash came much closer to the life cycle, thanks to this experience. He could not suppress his feelings while hugging Jaya & Dipy Dipy and affectionately patting the Driver. It is only in India that the passengers are received so late in Night and on reaching Home, they are served piping hot food. 

From Superfast to Superslow: A Saga of J.S.J. Express

Each mode of transport has its own utility and charm. If time is to be saved, long distances are to be covered and emergencies have to be coped with, there is nothing to beat travel by air, depending upon one’s paying capacity. In order to cover relatively short distances, journey by public or private surface transport, wherever possible, is resorted to. But the kind of relationships one develops or the exposure to diverse life patterns that takes place during the rail travel, is simply incomparable. Apart from time, one should also have a knack for it. Such a means, in addition, is supposed to  provide necessary succour to otherwise ruffled mind.

It also goes without saying that sometimes a planned rail journey becomes too long due to weather constraints, technical reasons or public disturbances en-route. While undergoing such an experience, one also puts too many blames, apart from hearing oft-repeated statement-“a train that is late is bound to be further delayed or sidelined or by-passed by those, otherwise moving on time or their rank in hierarchy ”. Against this background, one is tempted to share experience of one train which has supposedly lost its credentials as a superfast one due to its below the par performance in the last couple of years for reasons best known to the Ministry of Railways.

Congenial Atmosphere to Begin With

For the first time, I was going to board a train from Anand Vihar. As weather was o.k. and encouraged by the input of the previous day, the 12874 Jharkhand Swarn Jayanti Express was expected to be on time. On reaching the station, however, it was a reverse situation. It was reported to depart at 11.50 pm, that is, four hours behind schedule. One had no option, but to wait and watch. The experience of neat and clean platform was good to begin with. Even in the inclement weather, waiting passengers of five delayed and two cancelled trains were taking things in their stride. After all, for the majority, it was the time to visit home during usual Winter vacation or leave. When it became unbearable, most of us shifted to halls or relatively clean passages inside the main building. It was fun having home cooked food with some addition from the IRCTC stall. It was the only one to sell meals & eatables, that too, at relatively high rates.

Positive Response to Delay

By the time it was 9 pm, a message in respect of further delay of our train, by seven hours was flashed. One did not want to believe this shock till same was verified from the Enquiry. As it happens in such situations of common interest, a few assume the responsibility of looking after the luggage, while one or two walk down to the Enquiry. After several attempts, the news was confirmed. As it was bound to upset the plans of many, a kind of strange silence prevailed. A few went to sleep on whatever sheet or blanket they could lay their hands on, some began taking repeated walks, while  the flamboyant types went on munching sweet and salty items. The ‘revived’ IRCTC tea counter began doing brisk business. A vendor selling Uncle Chips, Auntie Biscuits and Grandpa Paan too emerged from nowhere. I too spread myself in a comfortable corner and would get up, look up here and there every 30 minutes. Lying down on cold surface was not only uncomfortable but one had to believe that age was catching up and travelling alone, therefore, was to be avoided. Just to break the unbearable monotony, I purchased a cream-roll and gulped a hot cup of tea around 11.30 pm.

An attractive Bengali couple was seen engaged in making rounds and rounds of the waiting hall. They seem to be enjoying it. The lady was also fiddling with her mobile, even while being in fast motion. A simple couple either from U.P. or Bihar who had arrived at this late hour was making itself comfortable after purchasing a ‘warm’ polythene sheet from one of unauthorised vendors. Such innovations are very much part of the ‘Jugad’ seen quite often in our country. Even the RPF Jawans on duty, were seen hankering for it. Cell phones were ringing time and again. While incoming callers would be more worried at midnight, some of the receivers would enjoy snoring. On seeing everyone conversing on Cell, I had the reason to believe that India had more cells than the number of toilets.

While two groups of still smiling students were settling for video games and movies on their Lap-Tops, Seeta and Geeta ,two young girls (possibly sisters), fully covered from top to bottom were seen taking light meals and tea at frequent intervals. It was quite admirable, at the same time, to watch them reading magazines at this unearthly hour. It was more interesting to observe Seeta feeding Geeta, whenever latter would show signs of fatigue. I was also amused to be acquainted with the usual talks and responsibilities of lower middle class families from Shyamlal, one of the Benaras bound passengers lying next to me. Apart from conversing we would keep an eye on each other’s bag when there was a need to use restroom or fetch a cup of steaming hot tea. One finds virtual absence of such humanly traits and emotions among the air passengers. A visit to toilet revealed that it was a choke and dirty situation but drinking water was available in abundance.

Ray of Hope, Respite at Last

At last, around 1.45 am, it appeared that our miseries were going to end. When we began collecting and reassembling our belongings in a haphazard manner to board the train(similarity with what Rudyard Kipling described in his book-‘KIM’), it was discovered to our grief that Vikramshila Express, another of delayed trains was going to arrive on platform. Whatever it was, at least a positive development took place after seven to eight hours. While this train finally departed at 2.00 am, we had reasons to be optimistic about our train. Our moment came at 2.20 am. Though JSJ Express was to depart at 3.00 am, the passengers were allowed to get into immediately. What a relief one got from biting cold conditions upon entering S-4 Sleeper bogie. Most of us were so tired by this time that one did not get a hint even whether train left the station at its re-scheduled time.

Six Muskeeters & Other Friendly Passengers  

I plan to devote less number of words on the journey proper as major part of one of the two unforgettable nights was spent either on sleeping or in looking aimlessly at the dense fog outside. Many a time, its intensity exceeded the one experienced in Delhi. I did have useful interaction with a group of 5 young ‘Muskeeters’(later addition being a cute tall Sardarji) .They were all the time engrossed in playing the Card Game of 28 or 29 to pass time, apart from being reminded to pick up eatables or a cup of tea each time the train was about to leave a platform. Whenever they were not sleeping or playing, they would test each other’s knowledge of General English, Arithmatics, I.Q. etc. It gave an impression that they were ever ready to write a competitive examination with a view to secure a job. In the train itself two of them were intimated about their next round of examinations at Purnea and Jhumri Tilaya. I saluted their spirits upon myself going down the memory lane.

Behaviour in general of some families hailing from Ranchi, Sisai, Gumla, Daltonganj etc. was commendable. Whenever their tiny tots would run or make noise, they would be immediately brought under control. They, at the same time, would never forget to offer home-made food stuff to the fellow passengers. Thanks to the path breaking Cyber revolution, young heads of Barla and Soreng families were found indulging in video graphy of beautiful terrain of Garhwa, Daltonganj, Barwadih, Latehar and Tori from their cell phones, a day-view of which even I was seeing for the first time. When I evinced an interest in proper focussing & frame and need to have a break in between, they would take it positively.

Discussion on Family Commitments

The typical but realistic middle class family tale of Lilawati Oraon, a widow, hailing from Sisai, presently residing in Delhi, was definitely to be taken note of. Rahul, her Software Engineer son was posted in Delhi, while Guriya, the daughter was a student of Class Xth.( I reside in Delhi but study in Haryana, she would utter smilingly.) Both turned out to be avid sleepers and would decline mostly tea or eatables offered by their caring mother. It was learnt that the family was visiting their village in search of a ‘suitable girl’ for Rahul. In sharp contrast was Albert Ekka,a young lonely passenger, occupying a berth next to the main gate, who braved cold winds on night one before  greasing the palm of a TTE to move deep inside the compartment. Since this Lathe Machine Foreman working at Delhi had no visible ego, we exchanged notes by getting down on almost every platform. Sometimes we would pay for each other’s tea as well. Due to further delay of train, he divulged his abrupt plan to get down at Daltonganj or Tori and take a bus to a destination in Chattisgarh, he was otherwise supposed to go after visiting Ranchi.

Adjustment In Given Situation

 Another interesting person was a middle-aged businessman in an adjacent compartment, whose seat I had unknowingly occupied to get my cell charged. Subsequent to our 45 minutes of conversation, we met also three four times at platforms. This Bhai Saheb, full of life had many anecdotes to convey. Who looked after my bag for such a long spell ? Any guesses? Mostly one informs the ‘neighbour’. But it may be also noted that if one is too much bothered, the miscreant may become suspicious and partial or full loss is inevitable. So, way out is to keep an observation from distance without letting anyone know. Happy go lucky type approach has seen me through in the trains in the last 38 years but same may not hold good in A.C. Compartments.

Could I go back to the observations on the movement of this delayed train? In view of the fact that it had started 7 hours and 20 minutes behind schedule, our weird guess was-it would be addition of another seven hours or so. Vague estimate would not work unless the mainline of Delhi-Mirzapur was left behind and the driver had his say from Mirzapur onwards as lesser number of trains run on this stretch. But prevalence of a single line in a major portion of this forested Plateau track after so many years of Independence was also baffling.

Further Delay, Long Unwanted Halt at Allahabad

Anyway, whether we noticed or not (apparently due to fog in the afternoon as well), train could reach Kanpur only at 2.30 pm against a normal journey of 6 to 7 hours from Delhi and thereafter Allahabad at 9 pm. Normal time between Kanpur and Allahabad is four hours by an Express train. While two cups of Pantry car tea at 7.30 and 10 am ,followed by second packet of home-made three Rotis and Subji had filled up my Belly in the first half, leftover of home food with the fresh additions from the Pantry Car made up for Dinner. Majority, however, managed to get lukewarm Railway Puri-Sabji(@Rs.30/-) packet from the platform.  Duration of halt at Allahabad puzzled one and all. For the fear of further delay, no one showed guts to look for the unique Guava of this place. I have rarely seen a train being detained at a major junction for over four hours and that too during the relatively free hours between 9.30 pm and 1.30 am. Yes it did happen with us when majority was in deep slumber. When train actually began moving after a long halt and woke up some in the process, the usual queries were:’ Have we reached Mirzapur or Renukoot ?, Which station is this? or ‘Is there a tea seller around?.All expressed a collective shock when conveyed the actual reality. It was enough recipe for taking recourse to another round of sleep. When Mirzapur was passed by, no one took note of, even when tea seller’s voice was clearly audible.

Renukoot, Daltonganj, Barwadih: Reflections, Past & Present

 Around 8.45am or so, U.P.’s last major station of Renukoot was in front of us. Rather than getting  munchies with tea at its newly elevated platform, one saw a virtual sea of humanity making an exodus. In good old days also this hilly township having an Aluminium factory would witness a large number of passengers. Today exit was accentuated due to inordinate delay. Train began moving even when fog had not thinned. First Chopan, then Garhwa stations were passed through between 9.30 and 10.30 am. The sight of Daltonganj took me back to my school and college days when I went there twice as an exalted member of Bridegroom’s party. In keeping with the country’s lavish social traditions we were accorded princely treatment. As the heat and poverty of this town was always heard of, it was satisfying to see many impressive civil constructions and automobiles. Later at Barwadih ,my memories of 1977 July became fresh when a precursor to this train was held up due to Engine failure for 6 hours but the smart Station Master had managed to get us hot Puris and Kohra ki Sabji, something I never had tasted before and did not relish either.

Nice Gesture of Pantry Car Manager

At this juncture, there was a sudden realization that almost whole of first half was spent in waiting for the usual Pantry car Breakfast. When wait was over, it was decided to check by undertaking a visit. After initial roundabout replies from the waiters, the dynamic Manager entered the scene. He announced ’Instead of the Bread, Butter, Omelette/Cutlet menu, two big sized Alu Parathas will be supplied in no time without any extra cost as train had got further delayed’ .Satisfied, we retreated and received a packet each soon after Noon. It was a praiseworthy gesture.

Exodus Begins

From Latehar onwards rest of the passengers from Jharkhand began getting down, though they had tickets for longer journeys. At Tori, Lilawati’s family disembarked together possibly with Albert Ekka , whom I had not met for an hour or so.. Probably he went ahead with his plans to take a bus to Chattisgarh to firm up the proposal of his sister’s marriage.. I too had undergone once a time saving journey of 2.5 hours by bus from here for Ranchi and had felt proud to see that this area produced varieties of green vegetables in bulk for the lucrative markets of the then South Bihar, Calcutta  and Siliguri.

Though the outflow from the train was accelerating, the six muskeeters were still busy in their card game. Ramwant, the Sardarji was destined to get off at Ramgarh while there was a distinct difference of opinion among the remaining five. After three or four quick games followed by an apology to a Breakfast, Sanjay, the most vocal of them (who affectionately addressed me ‘Chacha’ throughout) had his own way and thereby got down at Patratu (town having a thermal power plant)to take a bus to Ranchi. In our student days in Delhi, Patratu would see 80% vacation of train. We would treat 40 kms upward journey as a sort of 'new found freedom'.

Long Wait At Barkakana: Further Test of Patience

Vijay, the second ‘muskeeter’ in the meanwhile, eased himself out of the train at Barkakana around 15.10 hrs. His soul appeared liberated. Keeping in view its past background of cleanliness, once small station, now expanded, looked spic and span. Left over passengers of the area began showing signs of restlessness as train halted for almost 38 minutes. It was more than 36 hours inside already in addition to seven hrs ahead of the actual journey. The Delhi-ites undertaking their maiden journey to the capital of Jharkhand seemed extremely worried on seeing gradual reduction in the number of passengers. For the majority of them, the whole of Bihar or Jharkhand appeared disturbed. They showed no inclination to admire the unexploited natural beauty of the area and the simplicity of the local human capital, instrumental in running plants, factories, businesses, educational institutions, hospitals etc. in several parts of the country & abroad, apart from being the backbone of Bureaucracy.

Cell Calls Make Relatives Cheerful

At last, the reason of 28 minutes extra halt at Barkakana was known-it was recent introduction of the Engine change drill, from Diesel to Electric. As a Ranchi-ite I felt happy that our area too was getting ‘electrified’ in this manner after 67 years of Independence. I made optimum use of time while taking a stroll at the platform. Telephonic contacts were resumed with D.T, C.B, Babli and Guria. Last two got a pleasant surprise that I was coming to Hazaribagh at last after 5 years, albeit, 24 hrs late. C.B.at Ranchi had the reasons to feel disappointed. D.T. at  Delhi could not believe that my journey was ever going to end.

Ordeal Ends

Sharp at 16.05 hours (expected time being 17.05 hours, the previous afternoon) the train touched Ramgarh Cantt., the station I had decided to break journey. Most of us, however, were not in a position to celebrate this late victory. But coming closer to home who would not like? The ordeal of 44 hrs had come to an end .I touched the elevated platform of this place after almost 25 years.

As I was negotiating the fare for Hazaribagh bus stand with a well behaved Auto driver, someone patted me on my back. When I turned, he said" Sir, thank you, see you, SAT SRI AKAAL". It was none other than Ramwant. His remaining three friends waved at us from their compartment when the beleaguered or the 'maligned' train began its last leg of journey of 1327 kms for Ranchi. We kept looking till it disappeared from the view, well past the arched bridge, built by the Britishers, almost a century ago.

Hats Off To Railways & Quiet Passengers

This much for the human endeavour and endurance in India. Hats off to the South East Central Railways who made it happen under the extremely daunting and adverse circumstances without any casualty or injury AND the passengers who bore everything silently and decently, bereft of any sound or fury.