This is the new Konkan Railway service, oops product, to be launched within a couple of weeks. The train, which will start at Panvel in the morning, will have you in Goa by mid afternoon. Says B Rajaram, managing director, Konkan Railway Corporation, "There is a huge market for this route." So far Mumbaiites have had few options. A trip to Goa meant either a gruelling 12 hour drive or an expensive air ticket - neither are good options for a weekend - even if it is a longish one. Now a seven hour journey, that too at a reasonable cost has brought Goa much closer than it ever was.

While the destination is already well sold, Konkan Railway is selling the journey now. So far, barring one train, the entire trip from Mumbai to Goa is at night, denying most travellers a view. The new, as yetunchristened train will change all that. Finally the stunningly beautiful coastline will be on display. Says Rajaram, "Before you even know it, you will be in Goa." Keeping in mind the market, Konkan Railway had decided to do away with the conventional reservations system. While a percentage of seats will be reserved in advance, KRC will leave a certain percentage of seats unreserved till the last moment. This will enable people to simply walk on to the train. These last minute tickets will be sold at a slight premium.

While a second class ticket will cost approximately Rs 500, the price of the first class tickets is still being worked out. However, the price of the tickets will not remain constant. On non-peak days, special discounts will be offered. Says Rajaram, "The idea is to run the train at as high a capacity as possible to ensure that it is a money spinner for us. The ticket prices will therefore be more a reflection of demand."

Konkan Railway has already received all the clearances necessary tostart the train. It is only awaiting the delivery of rakes and coaches.