Demand for new train on Coimbatore to Tiruchendur route

Tamil Nadu: Pasha, a former member of the Southern Railway Advisory Committee, has demanded the introduction of a new daytime passenger train to Tiruchendur via Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode, Karur, and Madurai. He has sent a detailed petition to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, urging him to expedite the proposal.

In the petition, he stated that this train is essential to strengthen direct rail connectivity between South Tamil Nadu and the Western region. He cited the current state of rail services, stating that many major routes lack direct train services, forcing passengers to endure long and inconvenient journeys.

He specifically mentioned the Salem–Vriddhachalam passenger train (train number 76816). The train departs Salem at 10:30 am and reaches Vridhachalam at 1:15 pm, passing through Salem Town, Ayodhyapattinam, Minnampalli, Vazhapady Gate, Ettapur Road, Attur, Thalaivasal, and Chinnasalam. According to Pasha, the train is affordable and useful for locals, as the fare is around ₹35, providing significant relief to poor and middle-class passengers.

He stated that there is no direct train service from Erode to Vridhachalam, forcing passengers to travel via Salem, which results in additional time and money. A direct passenger train from Erode would directly benefit thousands of passengers in the Erode, Perundurai, and Sangakiri regions.

He also pointed out that the Coimbatore–Chennai Vande Bharat Express (train number 22644) departs from Coimbatore at 6 am and reaches Chennai at 11:40 am via Tiruppur, Erode, and Salem. This train operates on all days of the week except Wednesday. However, this service is only for quick travel and does not fully meet the daily needs of local commuters.

Pasha stated in his letter that the proposed new passenger train will originate from Coimbatore and run to Tiruchendur, connecting important industrial and cultural cities like Tiruppur, Erode, Karur, and Madurai. This will not only enhance passenger convenience but also provide better connectivity for business, education, and religious travel.

He also stated that a large number of people travel daily on this route, especially working professionals, students, and small businesses. Due to the lack of a direct train service, they have to rely on buses or other train connections, increasing both travel time and cost.

Local travelers and social organizations have also supported this demand. They say that the introduction of a new passenger train on this route will accelerate regional development and provide better connectivity between smaller towns and larger cities.

The Railway Ministry is expected to consider this proposal and make appropriate decisions keeping passenger convenience in mind. If this train service is launched, it could prove to be a significant improvement for the rail network in South India.