700 general seats reduced; Big changes in Malayalees' favourite train connecting Manguluru

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Parasuram Express, the most relied-upon train among Malayalees, is switching to LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches. The Mangaluru-Kanyakumari (16649) and Kanyakumari (16650) services will transition to LHB coaches starting September 23; the train has previously been operating with ICF coaches.

The new train comprises two AC chair cars, nine Second Sitting coaches, nine General Second Class coaches, and a luggage-cum-brake van. However, the number of General coaches is being reduced from the previous 16 to nine. This reduction in the number of coaches deals a severe blow to General class passengers.

Currently, there are 1,680 General seats distributed across 16 coaches, with 105 seats in each. In contrast, the nine LHB coaches offer a total of 970 General seats, with 108 seats per coach. This results in a reduction of approximately 700 seats for General passengers. While there were previously 315 seats across three seating coaches, this figure will rise to 970 with the introduction of LHB coaches.

The increase in reserved seats led to a reduction in general coaches. The Parasuram Express is heavily relied upon by students and people to commute for everyday purposes.