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The Ministry of Railways has granted preliminary endorsement for a new train serving Kollam via Kottayam on the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Chengannur route, according to Venad Express Minister Kodikunnil Suresh. The announcement came after a meeting where Suresh, alongside Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, presented video and photographic proof of the extreme difficulties faced by commuters during the evening rush hour.

The minister's office promptly forwarded the necessary directives to the Railway Board, which then instructed Southern Railway's Chief Passenger Transportation Manager to take immediate action.

Frequent travelers, including women, children, and elderly individuals returning from Ernakulam to destinations like Kottayam, Changanassery, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayamkulam, and Kollam, have been enduring arduous trips during peak evening hours. The primary request was for the introduction of a new service prior to the departure of the Venad Express.

Officials are now working on plans to launch a new passenger train from Ernakulam Junction at approximately 4 p.m., just before the Venad Express leaves. Railway authorities are assessing options to operate the new service using MEMU or ICF rakes, with the potential to extend the Kollam-bound service to Punalur.

The Southern Railway is presently reviewing technical aspects, such as the exact timetable, availability of train stocks, and the feasibility of extending the service to Punalur. The new service is anticipated to launch within ten days, significantly alleviating the Venad Express and providing much-needed relief to daily travelers along the Ernakulam-Kottayam-Chengannur-Kollam corridor.