One more train before Venad: New rail service approved for evening commuters

NEW DELHI: The Railways has approved a new train service on the Ernakulam–Kottayam–Chengannur–Kollam route to ease the heavy evening rush on the Venad Express. The service is expected to begin within 10 days, Kodikunnil Suresh MP said.

The new train is scheduled to leave Ernakulam Junction at around 4 pm and reach Kollam via Kottayam and Chengannur, ahead of the Venad Express, which departs Ernakulam Junction at 5.20 pm. The long gap before the Venad Express is a major reason for the heavy evening rush. The new service is expected to provide relief to regular commuters travelling from Ernakulam to Kottayam, Changanassery, Chengannur, Mavelikkara, Kayamkulam and Kollam.

Kodikunnil Suresh said the decision followed his meeting with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, during which he presented photographs and videos highlighting the difficulties faced by passengers. Following the meeting, the Minister’s Office forwarded the proposal to the Railway Board.

The Railway Board has directed the Chief Passenger Transportation Manager of Southern Railway to take steps to introduce the service at the earliest.