Chennai Plans Daytime Vande Bharat Train Service To Rameswaram
The Southern Railways has proposed introducing a daytime Vande Bharat service connecting Chennai with Rameswaram, marking a significant upgrade in passenger convenience along the route. Currently, only night services operate on this corridor, including the Sethu SuperFast and Boat Mail Express, which often face congestion. Officials state the new service aims to decongest existing trains while offering faster, eco-friendly connectivity.
Railway authorities have completed electrification of the 53-kilometre stretch between Ramanathapuram and Rameswaram, allowing electric locomotives to operate seamlessly. Minor gaps near Uchipuli railway station, including a 220-metre section adjacent to the Parundu Naval Air Station without overhead power cables, are under review for final route alignment. Experts emphasise that the introduction of Vande Bharat trains would significantly improve travel efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance passenger experience along this culturally and religiously significant corridor.
Currently, Southern Railways operates three daily and four weekly night trains on this route. The absence of daytime services has often inconvenienced commuters and pilgrims travelling to Rameswaram, one of Tamil Nadu’s most prominent spiritual destinations. Officials confirmed that once approved, the daytime Vande Bharat will be deployed to meet passenger demand while ensuring optimal utilisation of the newly electrified track.
The proposed service aligns with India’s broader railway modernisation and decarbonisation objectives. With electric locomotives replacing diesel-powered engines, fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced, contributing to cleaner, sustainable travel. Additionally, railway planners are considering passenger-centric design for stops and scheduling to enhance accessibility and comfort, making the journey more efficient for daily travellers, tourists, and devotees.
Railway officials are yet to finalise the exact schedule and departure stations, with Egmore and Tambaram both under consideration. Experts indicate that careful planning and coordination will be critical to ensure smooth operations, particularly along sections shared with freight and other regional services.With this move, Southern Railways anticipates a more balanced traffic load across the corridor, improved passenger satisfaction, and strengthened connectivity between Chennai and southern Tamil Nadu. Officials emphasise that the Vande Bharat service represents a strategic step towards sustainable, high-speed rail infrastructure in the region.
