Suburban line passengers let down

Suburban commuters who were looking forward to the Railway Budget to deliver better facilities at stations and improved connectivity were left thoroughly disappointed.

Nanganallur resident and activist, V. Rama Rao, said, as far as suburban services were concerned, the frequency of rush-hour trains in the Tambaram-Chennai Beach sector had not been increased.

Mr. Rao, however, welcomed the move to introduce a number of passenger-friendly services, including booking of rail tickets four months in advance and online booking of wheelchairs.

Perambur resident K. Gopalan said commuters in neighbouring areas were disappointed additional stoppages of long-distance trains had not been announced.

“The Railway Budget did not talk about strengthening EMU services or extending trains based on passenger demand. If a person were to travel from Perambur to Tambaram, he would have to walk to another station and change trains. Connectivity to Tambaram is pertinent as the airport is there,” he said.