Durai Vaiko seeks operation of shuttle services between Tiruchi and Salem

Tiruchi Lok Sabha MP Durai Vaiko has requested the Tiruchi Railway Division to operate shuttle services between Tiruchi and Salem via Karur for the benefit of daily commuters. 

At present, Train No. 76822 /76823 operates only between Karur and Salem although the rake is maintained at Tiruchi and runs empty up to Karur. The service could be extended up to Tiruchi with departure scheduled at 6 a.m. and halts at Tiruchi Palakkarai, Tiruchi Fort, Pettavaithalai, Kulithalai and Lalapettai to improve passenger convenience, he said in a memorandum to the Divisional Railway Manager, Tiruchi. 

An additional early morning shuttle between Karur and Tiruchi, which could depart Karur at 4.45 a.m. to reach Tiruchi by 6.30 a.m. with a return service from Tiruchi at around 9 p.m., will strengthen regional connectivity and facilitate interchange with major trains, the memorandum said.

Mr. Durai Vaiko also placed a set of demands to the Divisional Railway Manager when he met him at the latter’s office here on Sunday. 

He has sought the halt of Tiruchi – Mayiladuthurai MEMU express (Train No. 16833 /34) at Tiruverumbur as it served a large number of daily commuters, students and employees working in nearby industrial areas. 

At present, the station does not have a convenient service towards Kumbakonam and Mayiladuthurai, causing considerable inconvenience to passengers.  Providing a halt for this train will significantly improve connectivity, reduce travel hardship and provide a reliable transport option for the residents of Tiruverumbur and surrounding areas besides enhancing passenger patronage, he said.

Construction of a subway at North Ukkadai Ariyamangalm area in Tiruchi City to ensure smooth connectivity for the residents; clearing of overgrown bushes and thick shrubs on the sides of the railway track adjacent to the residential area of Jeeva Nagar in Tiruchi and operation of DEMU special services during the upcoming Samayapuram ‘Poochorithal’ festival to meet the increasing passenger demand during this period are the other demands.