Thiruvananthapuram: Responding to sustained passenger dissatisfaction regarding uncomfortable seating, Southern Railway has initiated a major rolling-stock overhaul for key express routes across Kerala.

The Thiruvananthapuram Division has reportedly received 16 updated coaches equipped with ergonomic bucket-style seating to replace the rigid backrests on the Jan Shatabdi network. The seating upgrade will roll out first on the Thiruvananthapuram–Kozhikode Jan Shatabdi Express, before being extended to the second-class sitting coaches on the Thiruvananthapuram–Kannur Jan Shatabdi service within 10 days.

The widespread commuter complaints arose after Chennai's Integral Coach Factory (ICF) ceased manufacturing specialised Jan Shatabdi sitting coaches. To meet operational demands, authorities temporarily deployed standard Mail and Express general coaches, which featured non-reclining, 90-degree upright seats that proved highly uncomfortable for long-distance travel. Following persistent public feedback, Southern Railway procured compliant replacement coaches from Northern India.


Measure to ease overcrowding on Venad Ezpress
In a parallel move to ease severe overcrowding on the Thiruvananthapuram–Shoranur Venad Express, particularly during peak Monday and Friday travel windows, railway authorities will shortly deploy 10 high-capacity general coaches.

The newly designed carriages hugely increase passenger capacity, accommodating 220 seated travellers and over 50 standing passengers, compared to the 108-seated capacity of older models. The updated design also incorporates cushioned luggage racks, offering additional seating space for commuters.