Three MEMU trains in Kerala to add coaches from Feb. 23: Union Minister Suresh Gopi

Union Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Tourism Suresh Gopi on Saturday said that the carrying capacity of three MEMU trains in Kerala will be permanently increased from February 23 onwards to benefit daily commuters.

Mr. Gopi made the announcement while inaugurating a newly constructed multi-level car parking (MLCP) facility at the Kollam Junction railway station. The MLCP is a key component of the major redevelopment works currently under way at the station to enhance passenger amenities and modernise infrastructure, the Southern Railway said in a press release.

On the occasion, Mr. Gopi announced that the number of coaches on three MEMU trains—Palakkad–Ernakulam–Palakkad, Kollam–Ernakulam–Kollam, and Kollam–Kottayam–Kollam—has been increased from eight to 12, boosting their carrying capacity and enhancing travel comfort.

Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) trains are short- to medium-distance commuter services in India, operated by Indian Railways and designed for suburban, semi-urban, and rural areas.