MPs demand express trains to Chennai, Bengaluru

TRICHY: Introduction of intercity express to Chennai via mainline, new express train to Bengaluru, resumption of all passenger trains of pre-Covid times and gauge conversion of Thanjavur-Villupuram section were among the major demands put forth by MPs whose constituencies fall under Trichy railway division at a meeting called by Southern Railway general manager (in-charge) B G Mallya here on Friday.
Trichy MP Su Thirunavukkarasar called for introducing daytime express between Trichy and Chennai and a new express train service between Trichy and Bengaluru. He sought establishment of retiring and restrooms, scooter and cycle stand, toilets, ATM kiosk and digital coach position indicator in all platforms of Pudukottai junction. Mayiladuthurai MP SS Ramalingam sought necessary funds for gauge doubling in Thanjavur-Villupuram section. MPs Thol Thirumavalavan, SS Ramalingam, Su Thirunavukkarasar and Rajya Sabha MP M Shanmugam demanded introduction of daytime intercity between Trichy and Chennai via Mayiladuthurai.
Thirumavalavan said around 5,000 youths who completed apprenticeship in railways are waiting to get employment for years and authorities should help them get a job in railways, he said. He demanded extension of the Kovai-Mayiladuthurai Jan Shatabdi express up to Chidambaram. Several students studying in Annamalai University would also benefit from it. Sivaganga MP Karti Chidambaram demanded filling 19,000 posts in Southern Railway.
Members of Parliaments SS Palanimanickam, M Selvarasu, M Mohamed Abdulla (Rajya Sabha), Navas Kani and T R Paarivendhar also participated.