Alappuzha (Kerala): Railways is targeting a speed increase for trains to 160 km/h on the Ambalapuzha–Thuravoor double line. Work to raise the current speed limit to 130 km/h is already underway, with the replacement of rails and sleepers progressing steadily.

Railways clarified that once the new double line is completed, it will have the capacity to support speeds of up to 160 km/h.

Construction of the double line from Ernakulam to Thuravoor is advancing at a rapid pace. The second girder was recently installed on the Aroor railway bridge.

 

Increased platform length

According to the new Detailed Project Report (DPR), three platforms and three stabling lines are included for Alappuzha railway station. However, the scope for expanding the number of platforms to five in the future was highlighted earlier.

The mechanical department has submitted a proposal to dismantle the existing pit line and set up a new one. Four platforms are planned for Cherthala, while three platforms each are allocated for Thuravoor, Mararikulam and Ambalapuzha.

There is also a proposal to extend platform lengths from 560 metres to 600 metres. This will enable long-distance trains with 24 LHB coaches to operate more conveniently at these stations.

Longer platforms will also facilitate the running of trains with more coaches and assist in increasing the number of long-distance train services through Kerala in the future.

 

More land required

Taking into account the future development prospects of the coastal rail corridor, calls are growing stronger to acquire the required additional land immediately. To avoid having to acquire land again in the future, passengers and regional representatives are demanding that long-term railway development requirements be incorporated into the current project.

With the Revenue Department creating new posts, land acquisition proceedings for the Ambalapuzha–Thuravoor double line are expected to gain momentum. The completion of the double line will be crucial for long-distance services connecting northern and southern districts, as well as for the coastal corridor – a major rail route.

Stakeholders insist that the required land should be secured now. Given the availability of land south of Alappuzha railway station, passengers suggest exploring the possibility of establishing a new depot, pit line, and stabling lines in that area.

 

Shift from loop lines to main lines

The new DPR also introduces major changes to the platform arrangements at coastal line stations. Currently, certain platforms at Thuravoor, Mararikulam and Ambalapuzha are situated on loop lines, causing trains to lose extra time.

Once the new layout is implemented, this delay will be remarkably reduced. Under the proposed plan, platforms 1 and 2 at Alappuzha, as well as platforms 2 and 3 at Thuravoor, Cherthala, Mararikulam and Ambalapuzha, will be directly connected to the main line.

Direct access from the main line to the platform and quicker departures from stations will help reduce travel times and improve punctuality.

 

Enhancing passenger amenities

As platform configurations change, demands are also being raised to upgrade passenger infrastructure. There is a need to expand amenities such as lifts, foot overbridges, and platform shelters at stations including Thuravoor, Cherthala, Mararikulam and Ambalapuzha.

With the opening of the Nerakadavu–Makkekadavu bridge, passengers from areas such as Vaikom, Thalayolaparambu, Thalayazham, Idayazham, Vechoor, Kumarakom and Kaipuzhamuttu will be able to easily reach Thuravoor and Cherthala stations.