The areas were non-operational as funds for construction were allocated only recently.

The routes, which will now be opened in various areas, include Ankleshwar, Jagatia, Rajpipla, Netrang, Kosamba, Umarpada, Bodeli and Chhotaudepur. On a query, officials at the Vadodara division said that there were no specific reasons as to why these particular areas were opened first.

One of the department officials said, only one train would be operated upon the narrow guage and on one system. He said the trains would be operated through the magneto telephone at most of the places, while Jagatia was the only place where the Post and Telegraph system would be operating.

It may be recalled that Express Newsline had earlier published reports about the need to operate these trains in certain areas to add to passengers' convenience. However, the division was unable to take a decision as it was awaiting the union ministry's clearance.

Division officials said Board authorities would soon take a decision on reopening other lines.