I respect your views. A train is meant for all and not just for the people of one City. But, it is also important to consider that, we are referring to an Intercity Express and undoubtedly the largest beneficiaries are people from Shimoga and Bhadravati twin towns. Isn't it fair to expect that the timings be aligned with the vast majority?
Yes, our fellow patrons from near by places (30-50 KM) too need to get back to their homes the same night. To some extent, this can be addressed by having feeder buses leave from Railway Station directly. It is quite logical that people staying even farther will have to search for alternatives.
You...
more... are absolutely right - there is no silver bullet solution. But when that is the case, in my opinion we need to stick to timings that benefits the largest masses.