Southern Railway, encompassing a vast network of 1,394 kilometers, is set to revamp train operations, particularly on major routes, covering a substantial distance of 110 kilometers. In alignment with Indian Railways` guidelines, train speeds are categorized into Group-A and Group-B routes, with a focus on achieving 160 kilometers per hour (kmph) on Group-A routes and 130 kmph on Group-B routes. This endeavor to boost train speeds is underway across all railway zones.
Southern Railway is taking concerted measures to elevate train speeds on critical routes within Tamil Nadu. Ongoing efforts encompass the construction of additional tracks, enhancements in track quality, installation of modern signaling systems, and strengthening of bridges.
Express trains have already witnessed speed enhancements on key routes, notably achieving speeds of 130 kmph on routes such as Chennai Central-Kootur, Chennai Central-Arakkonam, Jolarpettai, and Chennai Central-Renikunda, covering a total distance of 413 kilometers. These improvements have brought about enhanced travel experiences for passengers.
Furthermore, long-distance railway lines spanning 1,218 kilometers have undergone upgrades, with an extension of 110 kilometers to facilitate faster travel for express trains. In the Southern Railway zone alone, 1,394 kilometers of railway lines have been upgraded, with plans in place to further increase train speeds.