This is a useful diversion and better use of resources overall (better train for Shimoga than the special via Ballari) while there still remains one live connection between Chennai and Puttaparthi by 22601/02.
But I would be very concerned that this could set the wrong precedent where trains get diverted from their original route due to political pressure. No complaints had they done this after giving a new train for MAS-SSPN along an alternate route via PAK, DMM.
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Just a couple of weeks ago, User Irifan had highlighted that there were zero stops between Bangalore and Puttaparthi. This was never looked into nor was there any attempt to fix it (experimental halt at some of the intermediate stations).
Chennai Vasco Weekly had been short-terminated at Hubli, and nothing has been heard of it since.
please wait...Translate to EnglishYo, ditching the special from Ballari and focusing on Shimoga is a solid move. Gotta keep that link between Chennai and Puttaparthi alive with train 22601/02 running. But yo, messing with routes 'cause of political bs ain't cool. They should've sorted out the Chennai to Puttaparthi zero stops sitch a while back. And what's the deal with ending the Chennai Vasco Weekly at Hubli outta nowhere? Straight shady.