PM Modi Inaugurates Four New Train Services in Kerala to Boost Regional Connectivity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Thiruvananthapuram on Friday to flag off four new train services, including three Amrit Bharat Express trains, marking a significant enhancement to Kerala's rail infrastructure and inter-state connectivity.
Amrit Bharat Express: Bridging the Gap in Affordable Long-Distance Travel
The newly introduced Amrit Bharat trains represent a strategic initiative by Indian Railways to provide affordable, safe, and reliable long-distance travel for common passengers. These trains are designed to fill the gap between conventional mail/express services and premium trains by offering improved amenities, enhanced safety features, and better ride comfort at economical fares.
This launch is expected to significantly boost connectivity across multiple South Indian states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, facilitating smoother inter-state travel and economic integration.
Complete List of New Trains Launched by PM Modi
Here is the full list of the four new train services inaugurated during the Prime Minister's visit to Kerala:
- Thiruvananthapuram Central-Tambaram Amrit Bharat Express (Train No. 06122)
- Thiruvananthapuram North-Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express (Train No. 06308)
- Nagercoil Junction-Mangaluru Junction Amrit Bharat Express (Train No. 06329)
- Thrissur-Guruvayur Passenger Train (Train No. 06315)
Inaugural Run Details and Route Information
Thiruvananthapuram Central-Tambaram Amrit Bharat Express: On its inaugural journey, this train will depart from Thiruvananthapuram Central at 10:45 hours and arrive at Tambaram at 00:30 hours. The route connects major destinations including Tirunelveli, Kovilpatti, Virudhunagar, Madurai, Tiruchchirappalli, and Vriddhachalam.
Thiruvananthapuram North-Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express: The inaugural run of train number 06308 will depart from Thiruvananthapuram Central at 10:45 hours and arrive at Charlapalli at 16:30 hours the following day. This service will pass through Kollam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, Palakkad, Coimbatore, Salem, Jolarpettai, Renigunta, Nellore, Tenali, Guntur, and Nalgonda.
Nagercoil-Mangaluru Amrit Bharat Express: Train number 06329 will depart from Thiruvananthapuram Central at 10:45 hours and reach Mangaluru at 01:00 hours. The route includes stops at Thiruvananthapuram Central, Kollam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, Shoranur, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
Thrissur-Guruvayur Passenger Train: Operating as a special service on its inaugural run, train number 06315 will depart from Thrissur at 10:45 hours and arrive at Guruvayur at 11:21 hours, with a halt at Punkunnam en route. This service is expected to provide convenient and affordable travel for daily commuters, students, and devotees, thereby boosting local economy and religious tourism in the region.
Strategic Impact on Regional Development
The introduction of these new train services represents a strategic move to enhance rail connectivity within Kerala and with neighboring states. The Amrit Bharat Express trains, in particular, are positioned to revolutionize long-distance travel by offering premium-like amenities at accessible prices, making rail travel more attractive to a broader segment of passengers.
This development aligns with the broader vision of improving transportation infrastructure across South India, facilitating economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange between states. The enhanced connectivity is expected to reduce travel time, increase passenger comfort, and stimulate regional economies through improved access to markets and employment centers.
