Kochi Metro to Operate Special Services for Karkidaka Vavu Pilgrims
Kochi Metro is set to operate special services to facilitate pilgrims visiting the renowned Siva Temple in Aluva for ‘Karkidaka Vavu’ rituals. These extended metro timings on Wednesday and Thursday aim to provide convenient transportation for devotees during the significant religious observance, ensuring easier access to the temple at Aluva, a major center for ancestral rites. The initiative reflects Kochi Metro Rail Limited’s (KMRL) commitment to supporting public gatherings and cultural events.
On Wednesday, the metro services from the Thripunithura terminal station will be extended until 11:30 p.m., significantly past its usual last train departure of 10:30 p.m. Two additional trains are scheduled to leave Thripunithura for Aluva at 11:00 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. respectively. For Thursday morning, services will commence earlier from the Aluva terminal station, with the first train departing at 5:00 a.m., followed by another at 5:30 a.m. Regular services from Aluva will then resume from 6:00 a.m. onwards, as confirmed by a KMRL release.
This special schedule is expected to manage the increased passenger flow efficiently, allowing thousands of devotees to participate in the ‘bali tharpanam’ rituals performed on the banks of the Periyar River. By offering extended and early morning services, Kochi Metro plays a crucial role in ensuring that pilgrims can observe the sacred day without transportation hurdles, enhancing the overall experience for participants.
The provision of these specialized services underscores Kochi Metro’s role beyond daily commuting, extending its support to cultural and religious events that draw large crowds. This measure helps ease traffic congestion around the temple area and provides a safe, reliable, and comfortable travel option for those observing Karkidaka Vavu.
