Kerala’s first vistadome coach will be attached to Tambaram Express, the service connecting Tambaram and Kollam through the Punalur-Shencottah rail route.
Exploring the tourism possibilities of the scenic ghat section, the fully air conditioned coach will have transparent glass roof and sides along with 180 degrees rotatable reclining seats. If the coach generates reasonable revenue, more coaches will be added to Tambaram Express and other trains operating on the route. The decision was made at the suggestion of N.K Premachadran, MP.
Tambaram Express passing through the scenic hills will have stops at Shencottah, Bhagavathipuram, Thenmalai, Edaman, Punalur, Auvaneeswaram, Kottarakara, Kundara, and Kollam. It will also pass over the century-old Pathimoonnu Kannara Bridge (13-arch bridge) built using brick-dust (Surki) during the colonial era. The structure was strengthened without disturbing its heritage structure and now to complete its appeal, the authorities have decided to cover its upper portion with murals.
Service to Velankanni
Meanwhile, a new service to Velankanni will start operations through the recently commissioned rail route. According to Mr. Premachandran, the service from Ernakulam to Tiruchirappalli via Kollam will be now extended to Velankanni. The decision was taken at a meeting convened by the railway divisional manager in Madurai. It was also decided in the meeting to extend two Punalur passenger services to Thenkashi. Also, the Palaruvi Express, which now ends service in Punalur, will be extended to Thirunelveli. The railway authorities said they would consider the plea for more services in the route.
Though Aryankavu grama panchayat has four stations, none of them have stops for express trains. When Tambaram Express will be made a regular service, stops will be allowed in Aryankavu, said Mr. Premachandran. Considering the huge pilgrim inflow, it has also been decided to construct a pilgrim shed at Punalur for commuters to freshen up and rest.
