It achieved 25 per cent higher loading in coal, 353 per cent rise in food grain, 367 per cent increase in fertiliser, 50 per cent urge in iron ore and 27 per cent rise in other categories.

Addressing the Independence Day celebration, the DRM said, as part of enhancement of passenger amenities, the FOB from platform 1 to 5 at Tiruchy junction railway station was opened and work for the remaining portion was under way. The train captain service has been extended to all mail/express services in the division. 

To promote the UTS (Unreserved Ticketicking System) on mobile app, Airtel network service provider was permitted to setup Kiosks with wi-fi hot spot zones in 19 stations across the division.

On the project side, the track between Pattukkottai and Karaikudi has been completed and work between Tiruvarur – Pattukkottai section was expected to be completed during the current financial year. Major track maintenance work of deep screening was carried out in 17 points and crossings in Villupuram yard to ensure smooth and safe running of trains over turn-outs in the section.

Meanwhile, he highlighted that, 47 unmanned level crossings have been eliminated so far. Online grievance monitoring system has been introduced to handle employees’ issues. A new badminton court, renovated basketball court, new walker’s path and athletic track, including gym at Kallukuzhi railway stadium, was opened as part of recreational facilities for employees. All the three blocks of running room at Tiruchy was provided with air-conditioning facility for the convenience of loco pilots and guards. 

He added that, the division was planning to operate a he Steam Heritage Ride service between Puducherry and Chinnababusamudram. The first inaugural run of the Steam Heritage Train would be conducted on August 18 (Saturday) from Puduchery station.

The 72nd Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour, on Wednesday, in Western districts. In Coimbatore, district Collector TN Hariharan hoisted the national flag at VOC Park Grounds and distributed welfare aid to the tune of Rs 41.42 lakh to as many as 304 beneficiaries. 

In Salem, district Collector Rohini Bhajibhakare unfurled the tricolour and accepted the march of honour by police at Mahatma Gandhi Grounds. After honouring freedom fighters, the Collector gave away welfare aid, a sum of Rs 10.74 lakh to beneficiaries. She also gave certificates of appreciation to government staff and cops acknowledging their service. Similarly, in Namakkal district, Collector M Asia Mariam unfurled the tricolour and gave away welfare aid, while in Erode district, Collector S Prabhakaran hoisted the national flag and accepted the march of honour by police. The venue for the I-Day celebrations was brought under a thick security blanket and the event passed off without any major untoward incidents.