D. Ravikumar. File | Image source: T. Singaravelou
Villupuram Parliament member D. Ravikumar urged the railway commission to approve a detailed project report (DPR) to double the Villupuram-Thanjavur section and make some changes.
Mr Ravikumar submitted this demand to the Southern Railway as a follow-up to the Southern Railway’s annual meeting and held in Trichy on Wednesday (23 April 2025) to discuss railway-related development activities, issues and passenger amenities.
In a letter to the General Manager of Southern Railway, Mr. Ravikumar stated that the trains operated in this section operated at a high occupancy rate. He said Virupuram-Kadalor has an 82% occupancy rate, while Cuddalore-Mayiladuthurai has a 91%.
The route also witnessed heavy freight movements, providing more revenue for the railway, he said the work should be prioritized. Members of Congress also urged the Railway Authority to consult with the state government and provide alternative housing for families who build houses at the Virupuram junction and near the Varavanur station.
He said a notice was sent to residents to evacuate the land owned by the railway because the government had leased it to private individuals for a long time. Residents filed a lawsuit and obtained an injunction against the railway authority’s order.
These long-term residents are required to evacuate without providing alternative accommodation. He said the government should consult the state to ensure alternative housing is provided for these families.
Mr Ravikumar’s letter also includes requirements for providing escalator facilities at Villupuram Junction; introduction of EMU services at Villupuram; stopping at Tejas Express in Villupuram; other coaches from Puducherry to Madras Express; introduction of battery cards on Tirukoyilur and Uludurpet platforms; passenger amenities at Ulundurpet, Tindivanam and Tirukoyilur stations; stopping of Tirupati-Rameswaram Express; priority of local residents in rental railway property; and reviving special fares for seniors and journalists.
publishing – April 23, 2025, 17:00 pm IST
