New Amrit Bharat Express Trains to Transform West Coast Rail Travel
In a significant boost to India's rail infrastructure, the Railway Board has approved the introduction of new Amrit Bharat trains along the country's picturesque west coast. This strategic move aims to strengthen connectivity between key southern states, facilitating smoother interstate travel and economic integration.
Prime Minister Modi to Flag Off Inaugural Services
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially launch three Amrit Bharat Express trains and one passenger train on Friday from Thiruvananthapuram. This ceremonial flag-off marks a milestone in enhancing rail connectivity across southern India, particularly along the coastal corridor.
Key Routes and Stations
The newly approved services include:
- Train No. 16329/16330 Nagercoil Junction–Mangaluru Junction Amrit Bharat Weekly Express: This vital connection links the southern tip of Tamil Nadu with coastal Karnataka through Kerala, operating via major stations including Thiruvananthapuram Central, Kollam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, Shoranur, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
- Additional service between Thiruvananthapuram North and Charlapalli stations: Further expanding the network's reach and accessibility.
Inaugural Service Details
The inaugural special service, Train No. 06329 Thiruvananthapuram Central–Mangaluru Junction Amrit Bharat Express Special, will be flagged off from Thiruvananthapuram Central on January 23. This train is scheduled to depart Thiruvananthapuram Central at 10:45 hours on Friday and arrive at Mangaluru Junction at 1:00 AM the following day.
Coach Composition and Amenities
The Amrit Bharat Express trains feature a thoughtfully designed coach composition to cater to diverse passenger needs:
- Eight sleeper class coaches for comfortable overnight travel
- Eleven general second class coaches for affordable seating options
- One pantry car to provide food and beverage services during the journey
- Two general second class-cum-luggage brake van coaches that are Divyangjan friendly, ensuring accessibility for passengers with disabilities
Economic and Social Impact
The introduction of these Amrit Bharat Express trains promises multiple benefits for the region:
- Enhanced Tourism: By providing faster and more reliable connections along Kerala's scenic coastline, these trains are expected to boost tourism significantly.
- Support for Local Economies: The improved connectivity will facilitate the movement of goods and people, supporting fisheries and small trade activities in coastal communities.
- Interstate Integration: These new services will strengthen economic ties between Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, promoting regional development and cooperation.
- Affordable Travel: The train composition includes multiple general class coaches, ensuring that long-distance travel remains accessible to a wide range of passengers.
This railway expansion represents a crucial step in modernizing India's transportation network along the west coast, promising to transform travel experiences while stimulating economic growth across southern states.
