Schoolchildren onboard the Commonwealth Express that arrived at Mancheswar station near Bhubaneswar on Saturday. Picture by Sanjib Mukherjee.

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 7: The Commonwealth Games special train, which is travelling to various destinations across the country, reached here today for a two-day stopover. The train has onboard an exhibition to showcase the Games that will begin in New Delhi from October 3.

As the train chugged into the Mancheswar station, an air of enthusiasm filled the air. Schoolchildren and local residents turned up in large numbers to have a look at the exhibition.

The schoolchildren were particularly excited with the prospects of enjoying the company of the Games’ mascot Shera, which played a perfect host as it stood outside each coach to welcome the young visitors.

Of the 11 coaches of the Commonwealth Express, five are dedicated to the history of the Games and those who have made it big in the event over the years. Those coming to catch a glimpse of the exhibition also get to know about the 17 sporting events that have been included in the 19th edition of the Commonwealth Games.

There is also a special audio-visual section that gives viewers an insight into India’s performance at various sporting events over the years. The train also showcases models of the stadiums that would host the various events.

The entire exhibition is a learning experience for the visitors, particularly the younger ones, as they get to know about national and international award winners in the field of sports. “It’s a wonderful experience to see such a colourful exhibition on sports. The presence of Shera thrilled me,” said Shreya, a Class IV student who enjoyed every moment of her stay inside the train along with her classmates and teachers.

Six coaches of the train have been used to spread awareness about the various information technology initiatives of the central and state governments. There are also a number of kiosks in these coaches that inform visitors about the various e-governance plans and community service centres.

A quiz contest was also held for students at one of the kiosks. The contest focussed on India’s rapid strides in the field of information technology. Short films, which have been dubbed in various regional languages, are being screened in a coach that has been turned into a makeshift auditorium.

“The purpose of the train is to create an awareness among the public about the events and schedule of the Commonwealth Games,” said an official onboard the Commonwealth Express.

The official said: “In Bhubaneswar, our experience is great. The increase in the footfall shows that the people are eager to know about the Games.” The exhibition will remain open till 8pm on Sunday. From Bhubaneswar, the train will leave for Raipur.