The Ernakulam-Kollam MEMU (mainline electric multiple unit) trains through Kottayam and Alappuzha are likely to be flagged off from the Ernakulam Junction railway station at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Railway sources said.
The two rakes (set of coaches) were brought here three days ago. Each rake has eight coaches now and this would be increased to 12 coaches in the coming months. The coaches have toilets, unlike the MEMUs plying in other States. The MEMU through Kottayam would not have service on Saturdays, while the one through Alappuzha would not ply on Mondays.
Maintenance
The rakes would be taken to the MEMU shed in Palakkad for maintenance till the shed is ready at Kollam. The existing passenger trains in the two routes will continue to be in service, a senior Railway official said. He warned passengers against entering or disembarking the running trains since they accelerate and decelerate much faster than conventional trains.
