by reciprocal arrangement with Star of Mysore

Bagalore, May 8: The ambitious project 'Palace on Wheels', which can alter the very face of tourism in the State, will finally start chugging in about 18 months.

With the Central Government releasing Rs. 4 crore and the State sanctioning another Rs. 16 crore, the work to build special coaches and power cars will begin soon.

In fact, the project was approved with the State Government signing the contract with Centre as long back in 2002 itself but due to some unknown reasons, the project did not materialise.

Indian Railways is building the coaches for the luxurious 'Palace on Wheels' at a cost of Rs. 8.59 crore and if everything goes as planned, the project will be realised in 12 to 18 months.

The 'Palace on Wheels' will have 13 coaches for a capacity of 110 persons and will boast of TVs, library, bar, meeting hall and other five star comforts.

The luxury train will cover Mysore, KRS, Ranganathittu, many places in and around Bangalore, Belur, Halebeed, Hampi, Shravanabelagola, Badami, Aihole, Mahakoota and other tourist places in the city. Ticket price and the final routes are yet to be marked out.