Southern Railway Plans to Double Train Capacity in Chennai, Coimbatore and Kochi by 2030

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced plans for Southern Railway to double train capacity in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Kochi by 2030. This initiative aims to enhance passenger services and reduce congestion through comprehensive upgrades across key terminals.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced plans to double train capacity in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Ernakulam by 2030. This initiative aims to address the increasing demand for rail services in these areas. The Southern Railway will see significant upgrades, including expanded coaching terminals and enhanced operational capacities in key cities.

The redevelopment of Chennai Egmore station will include airport-like passenger separation and two air-conditioned terminal buildings. It will also feature 44 lifts, 31 escalators, and a concourse spanning 14,000 square metres. Tambaram station will receive nine lifts and improved integration for suburban services.

Capacity Expansion Plans

Chennai and Coimbatore are among 48 major cities identified for this capacity doubling effort. The strategy involves adding platforms, stabling lines, new terminals, maintenance facilities, and multi-tracking to accommodate rapid travel growth. These enhancements aim to reduce congestion and improve connectivity nationwide.

In Coimbatore, Podanur Junction is set to become a second terminal with a Rs 100 crore investment for stabling and pit lines. Meanwhile, Coimbatore North's redevelopment project, costing Rs 11.5 crore, includes new entries and amenities. The Coimbatore Junction PPP project is currently in the Detailed Project Report stage with a budget of Rs 692.65 crore.

Key Developments in Kochi

Kochi's Ernakulam Town Railway station will undergo redevelopment in two phases at a total cost of Rs 150.28 crore. This phased approach ensures uninterrupted passenger operations during construction. The city's rail ecosystem includes Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town, and Tripunithura stations, which handle significant passenger and freight traffic.

These stations are crucial for long-distance, intercity, and passenger train services, supporting Kochi's commercial, industrial, and tourism activities. They ensure seamless rail connectivity across the region. Phase I of the redevelopment is underway in the southern part of the station area.

Infrastructure Enhancements

A new Perambur terminal costing Rs 342 crore will feature seven platforms to alleviate congestion at Central and Egmore stations. Multi-tracking projects like the Chennai Beach-Egmore fourth line have been commissioned, while Attipattu-Gummidipundi third-fourth lines have been sanctioned to enhance suburban connectivity.

Existing facilities such as staff quarters, Parcel Office, Duty SM room, substation, and OFC rooms have been relocated to facilitate execution at Ernakulam Town Railway station. These infrastructure enhancements aim to improve the overall efficiency of the railway network in Southern India.

The city of Kochi plays a vital role in connecting Kerala with the rest of the country through its key railway hub on the Southern Railway network. These developments are expected to support Kochi's growing demand for rail services while ensuring smooth operations during construction phases.

With inputs from PTI