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A Nagapattinam-based trade body has urged Southern Railway to introduce Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches on two important express trains operating from Velankanni and Karaikal to improve passenger safety, comfort and travel quality on these routes.
Addition of Coaches to Express Trains Operating from Velankanni & Karaikal
The organisation has sought the replacement of conventional coaches with modern LHB coaches for the trains connecting the region with major destinations. LHB coaches are considered safer and more comfortable than older ICF coaches and are widely being introduced across the Indian Railways network.
The demand is particularly important because Velankanni is a major pilgrimage centre and attracts a large number of visitors throughout the year. The region also sees increased passenger traffic during the annual Velankanni festival. Better coaches could help improve the travel experience for devotees, tourists and local passengers.
The request also comes at a time when railway connectivity to Velankanni and nearby areas is being improved. The Chennai-Tambaram-Velankanni Express has been upgraded to a full-rake service, providing passengers with more direct connectivity to the pilgrimage town. The service uses a 23-coach LHB rake, which has increased passenger capacity and removed the need for passengers to change trains at Nagapattinam.
The trade body believes that similar improvements should be extended to other important trains serving Velankanni and Karaikal. Upgrading these services with LHB coaches could provide passengers with better seating arrangements, improved safety features and a more comfortable journey.
The demand is also significant for the local economy because improved railway services can encourage more tourists and pilgrims to visit Nagapattinam, Velankanni and Karaikal. Better connectivity can support businesses, hotels, shops and other tourism-related activities in the region.
The proposal is therefore aimed at improving railway services while meeting the growing demand for comfortable and safer train travel in the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu.