When Introduced, Lalbagh was the fastest train between Chennai and Bangalore and had 1 halt at Katpadi. Used to leave Bangalore at 6.30AM and reach Chennai at 11.45AM and the return was at 15.30 from Chennai and reach Bangalore at 21.50 an average of 68kmph. It is sad to see this train being slowed down burdened by Halts. Pinakini which was introduced along with this still runs with almost the same average inspite of the increase in Halts. Back then Lalbagh was the fastest intercity train in the south with a better average than Vaigai, Kovai, Brindavan etc. Its sad to see Lalbagh today is slower than all the above trains including SBC MAS mail.