Panaji (Goa): Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar  said that the Tejas Express,  India’s  first semi-high speed luxury train service that will operate between Mumbai and Goa, will be a big boost for Goa tourism.

The Tejas Express packed with modern facilities on board, is set to arrive in Goa past mid-night, will be a big delight for travelers to Goa, both during the peak season and off-season.

Ajgaonkar on Monday, not only welcomed the new rail service initiative, but all tourists utilizing this rail service to the State. He is hopeful that the Railway Ministry will give special attention to the urgent need for up-gradation of railway stations and improve facilities, cleanliness and hygiene as Goa is a tourism destination.

The 19-coach fully air-conditioned train has LED TVs, tea and coffee vending machines, catering service, bio-vacuum toilets, GPS based passenger information display screens and adequate leg room for each seat.

The train will run on the Mumbai-Goa route five days of the week— Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday— during the non-monsoon period.

During the monsoon — between June 10 and October 31 — it will operate thrice in a week—

Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.