The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Kerala): The Indian Railways has embarked on a project to modify sharp bends in the rail tracks stretching from Thiruvananthapuram to Mangalore, aiming to boost the velocities of trains operating on this route, disclosed a high-ranking railway official on Monday.
In a media briefing held in Thiruvananthapuram, the Divisional Railway Manager, Manish Thapliyal, detailed the railways’ plan to complete the curvature straightening tasks within the forthcoming three months. Thapliyal highlighted that these modifications are strategically planned to avoid the complexities and delays associated with land acquisition by primarily focusing on adjusting the existing curves to facilitate faster train movement. Currently, the maximum permissible speed on these tracks stands at 110 kilometers per hour.
Additionally, Thapliyal shared insights into the broader infrastructural and passenger service enhancements underway, mentioning that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to inaugurate several projects and launch new train services via virtual ceremonies across the nation.
Among the notable inaugurations is a new train route connecting Kollam with Tirupati, set for its virtual flag-off by the Prime Minister on Tuesday. Another significant development is the opening of a new goods shed at Valliyoor, also part of Tuesday’s agenda.
Addressing the ‘One Station, One Product’ initiative designed to support local craftsmen by offering them station stalls for fortnightly product sales, Thapliyal revealed that 17 stalls have been established within their jurisdiction. The initiative aims to enrich the railway stations’ cultural and economic ecosystem by bridging local artisans with commuters. Two of these stalls in Thiruvananthapuram district are among the projects to be virtually inaugurated by the Prime Minister.
In response to concerns about potential scheduling conflicts with other trains due to the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express in Kerala, the Divisional Railway Manager clarified that minor adjustments had been made to other trains’ schedules, asserting that there have been no significant delays as a result. He emphasized the overwhelming acceptance of Vande Bharat trains in Kerala, noting their popularity and the growing demand from various states to introduce similar services. The introduction of these trains is seen as a step forward in enhancing ticket availability and improving the overall travel experience within the state.