Railways grant in-principle approval for new Kollam-bound train via Kottayam in Keralam

Commuters chase a crowded Venad Express train as it arrives at a station. (File photo) The Ministry of Railways has granted in-principle approval to introduce a new train service to Kollam via the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Chengannur route, aimed at easing the severe evening rush on the Venad Express, Kodikunnil Suresh, MP, has said.The decision follows a meeting where the MP met Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, presenting photographic and video evidence of the intense hardships faced by daily commuters.“Following the discussion, the Minister’s office forwarded instructions to the Railway Board, which subsequently directed the Chief Passenger Transportation Manager (CPTM) of Southern Railway to initiate necessary action,” he said.Gruelling journeysThousands of regular commuters, including women, children, and senior citizens returning from Ernakulam to regions like Kottayam, Changanassery, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayamkulam, and Kollam during peak evening hours have been enduring gruelling journeys. To provide immediate relief, the core demand was to introduce a new service ahead of the Venad Express’s departure.Authorities are now progressing with plans to launch a new passenger train departing Ernakulam Junction at around 4 p.m., just ahead of the Venad Express.Railway officials are evaluating options to operate the new service using MEMU or ICF rakes, with possibilities of extending the Kollam-bound service further to Punalur. The Southern Railway is currently reviewing technical arrangements, including the precise timetable, rake availability, and operational viability of the Punalur extension.“The new service is expected to commence within 10 days, bringing much-needed relief to daily travellers along the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Chengannur-Kollam corridor while significantly decongesting the Venad Express,” said the MP. Published - October 06, 2026 05:14 pm IST