Need for more air conditioned trains on all the routes in Chennai!!
There is a huge expectation now from the train passengers in Chennai as ICF is gearing up to dispatch its first air-conditioned EMU services.
Now, the passengers from all the divisions are not only eager to catch the glimpse of the air conditioned EMU service but also want more services in Chennai. About 11lakhs passengers travel in the suburban train everyday in the city. The news regarding the operation of the first suburban air conditioned train has spread like fire now. Passengers are eagerly expecting the railways dept to announce ticket fares and routes.
As per the secretary of Tiruvallur Rail Passengers Association Mr. K. Baskar, a/c trains must be introduced in the Chennai Central- Arakkonam section. He was unhappy that this section is not given importance when compared to Chennai Beach- Tambaram section.
As per the social activist Mr. Dayalan just one train was not sufficient and more such trains were needed for the passengers. He hinted that a/c trains to Chengalpet (instead of Tambaram) would be superb as it would be of huge benefit for office goers at Mahindra City and other places etc. He concluded that due to heavy congestion especially in the peak hours many avoid EMUs but presence of air-conditioned coaches would make many to travel in these trains.
Many middle class people travel in the EMUs in Chennai and the ticket fares must be nominal in the upcoming air-conditioned trains. This was mentioned by a daily traveller from Pallavaram to Egmore.
It was pointed out by a daily passenger from Perambur to Tambaram that travelling in the a/c trains would be highly comfortable.
The route is not yet decided and preference would be given to Chennai Beach – Chengalpet route as patronage in this section is high. This was brought out by an official belonging to the Chennai division of Southern Railways.
