Overcrowded Parasuram Express: Jostling to find space, woman commuter injured

Kannur: When the Parasuram Express that began from Kannur, reached the Kozhikode railway station on Saturday, it was filled to the brim. Passengers jostled to make their way in somehow. During this futile attempt, many collided with one another, and a woman was injured. Two passengers fell on the track and Jamsheela sustained injuries on her leg.

On Saturday, instead of coming into the usual fourth platform, the train came to the third platform. As the platform was overcrowded, many took to jumping the tracks to get in. This rush extended to the Netravati Express that followed. 

Passengers had to stand inside toilets in all the general coaches and sleeper coaches. The beginning of the puja holidays on Sunday also led to an increase in traffic. 

To discuss the perils of travelling in the Malabar region, the Confederation of All India Rail Users will meet with the railway minister V. Abdurahiman on Wednesday. Association working president Chevalier C.E Chakunny said that all the problems, including the recent fainting episodes on the train, will be put up for discussion. 

Increasing two coaches in Parasuram Express, not delaying Parasuram to make way for Vande Bharat, the early departure of Kozhikode-Mangalore Express by half an hour, etc. are some of the demands set to be raised in the meeting. An application to this effect has already been submitted to Palakkad Additional Railway Manager, S. Jayakrishnan.