Metre-gauge era services from Kollam restored

Representational picture.

In a significant move to enhance railway infrastructure and passenger convenience in the Kollam and Kottarakara, three major train services from the metre-gauge era are being restored. Railways will take immediate measures to bring back the trains that used to operate from Kollam on the Pothanur, Tirunelveli, and Tiruchendur routes, Kodikunnil Suresh, MP, has said.

Additionally, the Punalur–Guruvayur Express will be extended to Nagapattinam, creating a crucial rail link between major pilgrimage centers in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, such as Guruvayur, Velankanni, and Nagapattinam. Regional commuters will also benefit from a new stop for the Punalur–Kanyakumari Passenger train at Kuri station, catering specifically to local students, daily wage workers, and regular passengers.

Long-distance travellers and pilgrims have further reason to cheer as train halts for both the Chennai Egmore Express and the Velankanni Express are scheduled to be operational at Ezhukone railway station by the New Year. To accommodate these long-distance trains, platform extension works at Ezhukone station will be completed by December. Meanwhile, tourism in the region gets a continued push with the decision to retain the popular Vistadome coach on the Punalur–Madurai–Guruvayur route, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views of the Western Ghats. “Railway authorities are also evaluating the technical feasibility of eliminating the bunker engine system currently required on the Punalur–Shenkottai section, considering track gradient, engine capacity, and safety norms,” said the MP.

To improve operational efficiency and cut down travel time, the speed limit on the Tenkasi–Bhagavathipuram section will be upgraded from 60 km/h to 90 km/h following technical safety assessments. “Addressing the seasonal rush for the upcoming Sabarimala pilgrimage, a special Sabarimala train connecting the Kollam–Kottayam sector via Kottarakara will be introduced, providing immense relief to devotees from these regions. Continuous follow-ups will be maintained to ensure the timely implementation of these decisions of the Madurai Division,” said Mr. Suresh.