14 special train services for Kerala commuters confirmed ahead of festive season; more under consideration

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala's Minister in-charge of Railways, V Abdurahiman, has reached a consensus with railway authorities to introduce additional special trains across the state to ease travel during the upcoming Navaratri festival, the government release said on Wednesday. Passengers will be informed of the schedules well in advance.

Discussions involved senior officials including the Senior Divisional Operating Manager of the Thiruvananthapuram division, the Assistant Operating Manager of the Palakkad division, and K Rail M.D. The release noted this follows the sanctioning of 10 special trains from Ernakulam and four from Thiruvananthapuram for the Velankanni church festival. Authorities also maintained that further trains could also be considered.

Route enhancements under consideration

The need for more services on the Alappuzha-Kayamkulam route was also addressed. The railway clarified that augmentation work has already been carried out on the single line, and the full resolution will come with the completion of the double line.

The minister's requests to resume the Ernakulam-Kollam MEMU service, which was suspended during the COVID period, and to increase general compartments in existing trains, are also under consideration by the railway, according to the release.

Infrastructure developments

Major infrastructure improvements are on the agenda. The release stated that authorities have agreed to construct an underpass at Varkala-Kappil due to difficulties in crossing the elevated railway line, in coordination with the Public Works Department. The railway ministry will also note the issue of limited train stops at Kuruppanthara Adarsh station, caused by platform looping.

Furthermore, renovation work at Kannur railway station, a ₹30-crore project, is progressing as planned and is expected to be completed by next March, the release added.

Monsoon preparedness

Looking ahead, the release said that precautions will be implemented on the Thiruvananthapuram-Mangaluru route to mitigate monsoon-related traffic disruptions such as fallen trees and landslides. Collaboration with local authorities will ensure smoother travel during adverse weather.