Historic Train Inauguration Boosts Pilgrimage Tourism

Union Minister V Somanna inaugurated the Tirupati-Sainagar Shirdi Express, marking a new era for pilgrimage tourism across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The train connects significant religious sites, promotes economic activity, and highlights Andhra Pradesh's rail infrastructure growth.

Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V Somanna, has inaugurated the Tirupati-Sainagar Shirdi Express while highlighting its potential to transform pilgrimage tourism in the southern states of India. Conducted via video conferencing from Rail Bhawan, New Delhi, this launch symbolizes a significant milestone for devotees in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.

The newly launched train service directly connects Tirupati and Shirdi, two of India's prominent pilgrimage centers, facilitating stops at 31 key locations like Nellore, Guntur, and Secunderabad. This connection aims to enhance not only spiritual journeys but also to stimulate economic activities across these regions.

According to the railway ministry, this is the first direct train service from Andhra Pradesh's south coastal belt to Shirdi. Minister Somanna noted an impressive elevation in Andhra Pradesh's rail infrastructure budget, indicating a broader commitment to regional development and improved travel experiences.

(With inputs from agencies.)