CHENNAI: A successful trial run with an AC electric locomotive at the permissible speed of 75 kmph was conducted at the electrified traction on the Tiruturaipundi (Tiruvarur)– Agastiyampalli (Nagapattinam) section on Friday.
This will facilitate the introduction of electric locomotive operations, replacing diesel-based services and thereby enabling more sustainable, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly rail transportation, said a press release issued by Southern Railway.
Tiruturaipundi-Agastiyampalli broad gauge section, part of the 150-km Tiruvarur–Karaikudi line, is the branch line originating from Tiruturaipundi, which is connected to the main line running between Mayiladuturai and Karaikkudi.
The area covers Tiruvarur and Nagappattinam districts of Tamilnadu connecting stations such as Kariyapattinam, Kuruvappulam,
Thopputhurai, Neyvilakku, and Vedaranyam.
The gauge conversion of the 37 km Tiruturaipundi–Agastiyampalli section was commissioned in April 2023, and passenger services (DEMU) were introduced in the section thereafter.
The electrified Tiruturaipundi–Agastiyampalli section would reduce operating costs and increase efficiency, enabling more frequent services to support local commerce, fisheries, agriculture, and tourism.
Electrified freight operations ensure quicker turnaround, lower logistics costs, and better access to ports and markets.
This line connects various tourist spots like Kodikkarai beach, Point Calimere wild and bird sanctuary and many places of worship, thereby promoting tourism and benefiting the coastal and delta regions of Tamil Nadu.
This will also pave the way for the introduction of more passenger train services in this section.