An Incredible Journey

Train Number 2843/4

Puri to Ahmedabad to Puri

Celebrating two decades

Of my relationship with the train.

Recalling those times

When I had to travel

By a sleeper class ticket

From Vizianagaram to Vadodara

Those were days when 

Train was full beyond limit

With migrant labour 

From Odisha working in Surat

A journey of 32 hours

Witnessing toughest times

Coaches filled with smoke

From cigarettes and bidis

Windows, doors and floors

Painted red with pan

Washbasins and washrooms

Had taps always found dry

Pantry Car to serve food

In most unhygienic ways

Gradually started to travel

In 3AC by the same train

Only change is in comfort 

Rest continued to be the same

Another journey today in 2AC

By the same train during COVID 

From Anand to Vizianagaram 

A different experience altogether 

Passengers limited

Precautions unlimited

Cleanliness and hygiene 

Beyond expectations

Another journey of 30 hours 

During COVID 19 times

Blessed to witness 

Stations and trains incredible

The most awaited day

Where everyone has

Their designated place in trains

For a journey happy and safe

Tough times do not last forever

But the learnings should last

Making India Swachh Bharat

Both in letter and spirit