Kannur: Trial run of MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) train was conducted from Shoranur to Kannur and vice versa on Thursday. A team led by Palakkad division ADRM Sakeer Hussain, senior divisional electrical engineer (operations) Jayakrishnan travelled in the train during the trial run.

The officials examined the electrification system and all station platforms from Shoranur to Kannur.

The MEMU train carried out the trial run with 8 coaches.

Over 500 coaches to be demolished

With the operation of MEMU train, over 500 passenger coaches will be demolished in Kerala. These coaches are taken to Ernakulam harbour terminals and to Kollam.

The demolition of the coaches will be carried out after issuing tender. Parts like wheels that can be reused will be removed before demolition.

It is reported that 300 coaches in the Thiruvananthapuram division and 200 in Palakkad division will be demolished.

At the same time, it is not confirmed whether the coaches will be demolished at the coach construction factory or after making a huge scrapyard in the state. The authority is also planning to take the coaches to the recycling units which will be established near the ports.

The railway has adopted MEMU trains examining the expenditure on maintenance of coaches. Before the COVID outbreak, the railway hinted  plans to switch to MEMU trains. Following this, the railway has stopped the production of traditional model coaches.

Advantages of MEMU

  • Only one loco pilot is needed for operating MEMU train.
  • There will be no need for engine shunting as both sides of the train carry engine. Hence, about 20 minutes will be saved during the operation of the train service.
  • Compared to the traditional coaches, MEMU train coaches can accommodate more number of passengers.
  • MEMU trains can increase the speed within a few minutes of starting the engine.