'Resume day train from Thoothukudi to Coimbatore'

The train service between these two cities on meter gauge was discontinued in 1992 for gauge conversion. Since expectations among Coimbatore bound passengers from Thoothukudi were high, the much awaited train could be reintroduced for the welfare of passengers, M Piramanayagam, secretary, Thoothukudi District Passengers Welfare Association, said.

If the train service was extended to Thoothukudi, passengers could have access to Ernakulam Port and it would also help pilgrims to access Sabarimala. Moreover, the much awaited service would open up new avenues for eco-tourism in Punalur and also in Kollam, from there passengers could reach Trissur and Guruvayur. Besides, the association also felt the need for MEMU service between Thoothukudi and Kollam junction enroute to Trivandrum Central. Further, the association sought changes in departure and arrival to be scheduled at 5.50 pm and 9.30 am respectively at Thoothukudi station. A memorandum seeking to fulfill these demands was handed over to Union Minister of Railways, Piyush Goyal, who presided over a programme in Thoothukudi on Monday, he said.