The Podanur Train Users Association has formally requested Southern Railway to introduce stoppages for several key trains, including the Kovai Express and Cheran Express, at Ambattur railway station in Chennai. In a letter addressed to the Divisional Railway Manager of the Salem Railway Division, the association's general secretary, N Subramanian, highlighted the significant difficulties encountered by passengers traveling from Coimbatore, Tirupur, Erode, and Salem regions to Ambattur and its adjoining areas.
Passenger Hardships and Current Travel Challenges
According to Subramanian, passengers who board trains such as the 12680/12679 Intercity Express, 12676/12675 Kovai Express, 22638/22637 West Coast Express, and 12674/12673 Cheran Express are compelled to travel all the way to Chennai Central railway station. From there, they must backtrack to Ambattur, either by using suburban trains or by road, which adds considerable time and expense to their journeys. This situation is particularly burdensome for senior citizens, women, students, and families, who often struggle with the heavy crowds at Chennai Central and the suburban network, especially during peak hours.
Importance of Ambattur as a Suburban Hub
Ambattur is one of Chennai's major suburban localities, housing a large residential and industrial population. Many individuals from western Tamil Nadu are employed and reside in and around Ambattur, Avadi, Pattaravakkam, and nearby areas. The current lack of direct train stoppages forces these commuters to endure the congestion at Chennai Central, which is already overcrowded. Subramanian emphasized that providing stoppages at Ambattur railway station would greatly benefit commuters, students, and the general public. It would also help reduce congestion at Chennai Central and ease the burden on suburban train services.
The association has urged the railways to consider this request as a measure to improve connectivity and enhance the travel experience for thousands of daily passengers.
