TNI Bureau: The withdrawal of a 2AC coach from the Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Road Express (Train No. 18437/18438) has triggered dissatisfaction among passengers and public representatives, with many terming the decision inconvenient and unjustified.

Senior BJP leader and former minister Pradipta Kumar Naik has raised the issue publicly, expressing concern over the sudden removal of the 2AC coach without any stated valid reason. He pointed out that commuters on this route have long been demanding the introduction of a 1AC coach to cater to growing passenger needs. Instead of upgrading services, however, the railways have reportedly reduced capacity by withdrawing an existing 2AC coach.

The Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Road Express serves as a crucial rail link connecting several districts of Odisha, including the KBK region, to the state capital. The train is widely used by government employees, businesspersons, students, and patients travelling for medical treatment. The removal of the air-conditioned coach is expected to significantly affect passengers who rely on comfortable long-distance travel, especially during peak seasons.

Naik has urged Railway authorities to reconsider the decision at the earliest, keeping in mind the increasing demand and passenger convenience. He has called for the restoration of the withdrawn 2AC coach and has also reiterated the long-pending demand for the introduction of a 1AC coach in the train’s composition.

Tagging Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with senior state and railway officials, Naik appealed for urgent intervention to resolve the matter. He emphasized that instead of reducing facilities, Indian Railways should focus on strengthening services on important regional routes that cater to a large population.

The issue has sparked discussions among passengers and local residents, who believe that rationalization of train coaches should be done transparently and based on actual occupancy data. As the debate gathers momentum, commuters now await a response from the Railway Ministry regarding the possible restoration of the 2AC coach and reconsideration of service upgrades on this vital route.