It operates as train number 12611 from Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station to Hazrat Nizamuddin and as train number 12612 in the reverse direction serving the seven states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh & Delhi. It shares the record of being the fastest train between Hazrat Nizamuddin and Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station along with the Chennai Rajdhani Express covering the 2176 km journey in 28 hours and 20 minutes.
Coaches
The 12611 / 12612 MGR Chennai Central-Hazrat Nizamuddin Garib Rath Express has an LHB rake consisting of 14 AC 3-tier economy and 2 End-on Generator coaches. It does not carry a Pantry car coach.
As is customary with most train services in India, Coach Composition may be amended at the discretion of Indian Railways, depending on demand.
Services
The 12611 numbered Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station - Hazrat Nizamuddin Garib Rath Express covers a distance of 2175 kilometres in 28 hours 10 mins (77.22 km/h).
The 12612 numbered Hazrat Nizamuddin - Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station Garib Rath Express covers a distance of 2176 kilometres in 28 hours 15 mins (77.03 km/h).
As the train's average speed is above 55 km/h (34 mph), as per Indian Railways rules, its fare includes a Superfast surcharge.
Routes
The routes of 12611 / 12 numbered Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station - Hazrat Nizamuddin Garib Rath Express are:
Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station