Conventional Trains To Be Phased Out With Memu

PALAKKAD: With the completion of the Mainline Electrical Multiple Unit (MEMU) shed in Palakkad which is expected by March next year, the Railways will be able to replace all the conventional trains with MEMU and also introduce new ones in course of time, according to Southern Railway General Manager Deepak Krishan.

He was speaking to newsmen while inspecting the Palakkad division at the Palakkad Junction railway station on Wednesday.

The General Manager said that MEMU trains would be able to serve passengers better.

They have faster acceleration and deceleration and can also carry larger number of rakes. He said that in due course of time more suburban trains could be introduced.

To a question about the gauge conversion of the Palakkad–Pollachi line, Deepak Krishan said that it could be completed as per the availability of funds. Currently, only a sum of Rs 800 crore has been set aside for gauge conversion in Southern Railway which was insufficient.

The priority of the Railways on gauge conversion is to finish the ones which are nearing completion, he said. However, political parties of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been demanding more funds in the Budget and once this is done, the works could be speeded up.

Coach factory

Deepak Krishan said that it was the State Government which had to provide the necessary land which may range from 300 acres to 600 acres.

After the land is allotted by the State Government, the site needs to be approved by the Railways, since there should be rail connectivity.

The manufactured coaches should be transported by rail and so also raw materials also need to come by rail.

Inspection

Deepak Krishan said that the inspection of the Palakkad division conducted on Wednesday was a regular one aimed at improving the services. The area from Shoranur to Podhanur was inspected on Wednesday.

The General Manager interacted with representatives of passenger associations, trade union leaders and public.


Source: expressbuzz.com