NE MOBILITY BUREAU
ERNAKULAM, MAR 12
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Ernakulam in Kerala on Wednesday and inaugurated, dedicated and laid the foundation stone for several major infrastructure projects across sectors, including railways, energy, roads and rural development.
During the visit, projects linked to the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Rural Development and Ministry of New and Renewable Energy were unveiled, reflecting a coordinated push for infrastructure expansion and regional development.
- Amrit Bharat Station Scheme transforms three key Kerala stations with modern passenger facilities and regional architectural elements
- 65-km Shoranur–Nilambur railway line electrification boosts efficiency and greener rail transport
- New Palakkad–Pollachi MEMU train enhances daily connectivity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu
- Multi-ministry development projects unveiled during Ernakulam visit signal push for infrastructure-led growth
The main function was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Union Ministers of State Suresh Gopi and George Kurian, and Member of Parliament Hibi Eden, along with senior government officials and other dignitaries.
Simultaneous ceremonial programmes were organised at redeveloped stations and related locations including Shoranur, Kuttippuram, Changanassery and Palakkad. These events saw participation from local public representatives, railway officials, passengers and members of the public.
The Ernakulam ceremony was live-streamed to all venues, enabling people across the locations to witness the inauguration and flag-off events.
Kerala’s Three Redeveloped Railway Stations Inaugurated
During the programme, the Prime Minister inaugurated three redeveloped railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme — Shoranur Junction railway station, Kuttippuram railway station and Changanassery railway station.
Developed at a total cost of about ₹52 crore, the stations have been upgraded with modern passenger amenities, improved circulating areas and better accessibility while incorporating local architectural and cultural elements.
Key features of the redeveloped stations include upgraded station buildings, improved waiting areas, enhanced platform shelters, better lighting, passenger information systems, lifts and escalators, and free Wi-Fi facilities. The redevelopment forms part of the nationwide transformation of railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
At the local ceremonial function held at Shoranur Junction, Member of Parliament V. K. Sreekandan and MLA P. Mammikutty participated.
At Kuttippuram, MLA Abid Hussain Thangal graced the occasion.
At Palakkad Junction railway station, the inaugural function was held in the presence of MLA Rahul Mankoottathil, along with Palakkad Divisional Railway Manager Madhukar Roat.
Shoranur–Nilambur Railway Line Electrification Dedicated
The Prime Minister also dedicated to the nation the Shoranur–Nilambur Railway Line Electrification Project, covering about 65 km and executed at a cost of approximately ₹90 crore.
Electrification of this section will enable faster and more efficient train operations by eliminating the need for locomotive change at Shoranur. The project is also expected to support environmentally sustainable rail transport by reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency.
Palakkad–Pollachi MEMU Service Flagged Off
On the occasion, the Prime Minister flagged off the Palakkad–Pollachi MEMU train service, strengthening rail connectivity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The inaugural special train, Train No. 06623 Palakkad–Pollachi MEMU, departed from Palakkad Junction railway station, passing through intermediate stations including Palakkad Town, Pudunagaram, Kollengode, Muthalamada, Meentachipuram and Anaimalai Road before reaching Pollachi.
The new service is expected to benefit daily commuters, traders, pilgrims and tourists travelling between the two states by providing a convenient and affordable mode of transportation.
Officials said the newly inaugurated railway infrastructure and services will significantly enhance passenger convenience, strengthen inter-state connectivity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and support regional economic growth through improved mobility and sustainable transport solutions.
