Exploring Kerala’s Rail Traffic Woes: Is Vande Bharat the Real Culprit?
In Kerala, concerns have risen over the state’s rail traffic situation, especially during holidays when trains are severely overcrowded. Many have pointed fingers at the newly-introduced Vande Bharat service, but is it truly to blame, or are there underlying issues contributing to this crisis? Let’s delve into the details as Onmanorama investigates.
Fewer General Coaches: The Indian Railways has gradually reduced the number of general coaches in most trains, causing significant overcrowding, especially during daytime travel in Kerala. This decision, driven by the Railway Board’s policy to prioritize air-conditioned compartments, has left passengers struggling to board trains, with the demand to revert to the previous number of general coaches growing stronger.
Vande Bharat Service and Delays: Complaints emerged that Vande Bharat deliberately delayed other trains, sparking frustration among regular commuters. Railway authorities responded, explaining that regulations at stations are common nationwide, allowing premium trains like Vande Bharat to overtake others. Political campaigns in Kerala have sought to blame Vande Bharat for delays, although the reasons are diverse, including recent engineering work causing delays of around 90 minutes.
Solutions in Various Regions: South Kerala: Suggestions include altering the route of Venad Express, starting new MEMU services, and changing Ernad Express’s departure time. Malabar: Recommendations encompass introducing a MEMU service ahead of Parasuram Express, starting a new train service from Ernakulam Town to Kasaragod, and enhancing general coaches in existing trains.
Other Contributing Factors:
NH Development: Development work on National Highway 66 diverted travelers to trains, causing increased rail traffic.
High Bus Fares: Comparatively high bus fares pushed passengers towards trains, especially with affordable rail season tickets available.
SilverLine Project vs. Reality: While the state promotes the SilverLine project as a solution, experts question its affordability, especially for regular commuters accustomed to minimal rail expenses.
Alternative Solutions Proposed:
Build New Double Line: Creating a new double line across the state with fewer stations to enable trains to travel at higher speeds.
Shift Fast Trains: Shifting fast trains to the proposed new double track and allowing slow express and passenger trains on the existing tracks.
Regular MEMU Services: Conducting regular MEMU services at intervals of 30 minutes along existing tracks to ease congestion.
Kerala’s rail traffic challenges stem from a combination of factors, including reduced general coaches, delays caused by various reasons, increased rail traffic due to highway development, and high bus fares. While the state explores ambitious projects like SilverLine, addressing these immediate concerns with practical solutions might alleviate the current travel woes faced by passengers in Kerala.
