Chennai Coimbatore Kochi Southern Railway To Double Train Capacity By 2030
Chennai, Coimbatore, and Kochi will witness significant railway upgrades as Southern Railway plans to double train capacity by 2030 to meet growing passenger demand. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced comprehensive enhancements across key coaching terminals, including new platforms, stabling lines, multi-tracking projects, and redeveloped station facilities. The initiatives aim to reduce congestion, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen regional and nationwide connectivity while ensuring modern, passenger-friendly infrastructure at major Southern Railway hubs.
Southern Railway is set to transform its operations across Chennai, Coimbatore, and Kochi with plans to double train capacity by 2030, addressing rapidly growing travel demand in southern India. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined comprehensive upgrades for coaching terminals, tracks, and operational facilities to enhance efficiency, passenger convenience, and regional connectivity.Chennai, one of India’s busiest rail hubs, will see major improvements, including airport-style passenger separation at Egmore station, two air-conditioned terminal buildings, 44 lifts, 31 escalators, and a 14,000 sq m concourse. Tambaram station will gain nine lifts and improved integration for suburban services, while a new terminal at Perambur will ease congestion at Chennai Central and Egmore. Multi-tracking projects such as the fourth line between Chennai Beach and Egmore and third-fourth lines between Attipattu and Gummidipundi will enhance suburban connectivity, supporting high-frequency train operations.
In Coimbatore, Podanur Junction is slated to become a secondary terminal with a ₹100-crore investment for stabling and pit lines. Redevelopment of Coimbatore North includes upgraded entries and passenger amenities, and the Coimbatore Junction Public-Private Partnership project is in the DPR stage. These upgrades will accommodate rising intercity and long-distance travel while improving commuter experience and operational reliability.Kochi, a strategic hub in Kerala, will see redevelopment of Ernakulam Town Railway station in two phases at a total cost of ₹150.28 crore. The phased approach ensures uninterrupted passenger operations during construction. The city’s rail ecosystem, including Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town, and Tripunithura stations, handles substantial passenger and freight traffic, supporting Kochi’s commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors. Relocation of existing facilities such as staff quarters, parcel offices, and substations is underway to facilitate construction.
These planned expansions are part of a broader strategy to modernise Southern Railway’s infrastructure and operational capabilities. By increasing sectional and operational capacities, the railway aims to reduce congestion, enable smoother scheduling, and improve long-distance and suburban service integration. The enhancements will also provide improved accessibility, safety, and comfort for passengers, aligning with India’s goals for sustainable and efficient urban and regional transport networks.Experts highlight that such infrastructure investments are essential for supporting urban growth, commercial activity, and tourism while strengthening nationwide rail connectivity. With strategic terminal upgrades, multi-tracking, and modern facilities, Southern Railway is positioning itself to meet future passenger demand effectively while delivering a seamless travel experience across southern India.
