R ARIVANANTHAM
NAGERCOIL, MAR 22
In a strong and timely appeal, the Kanyakumari District Railway Users’ Association (KKDRUA) has urged Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to revise the timings of the 17235/17236 Bengaluru–Nagercoil Express, calling it a “lifeline train” for thousands of passengers commuting between Karnataka’s IT capital and the southern districts of Tamil Nadu.
Highlighting the acute inconvenience caused by the current schedule, the association noted that the train remains the only daily direct connectivity between Bengaluru and the far south, serving a large number of IT professionals, students, and families.
- Only daily rail link between Bengaluru and South Tamil Nadu under strain
- IT professionals, students losing productive hours due to odd timings
- Users pitch faster run, overnight convenience and Kanniyakumari extension
- Appeal to Railway Minister ahead of upcoming timetable revision
“The existing timings compel passengers to lose valuable work and academic hours, making travel both inefficient and exhausting,” said S.R. Sreeram, President of KKDRUA.
The association pointed out that with the train now originating from Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal, Bengaluru, operational constraints have eased considerably. Nearly half of the 662-km route is covered by double electrified lines, significantly reducing delays and enabling faster movement.
“With improved infrastructure and additional slack time across divisions, there is ample scope to optimise the schedule and enhance passenger convenience,” Sreeram emphasised.
The users’ body has proposed that the train should depart from Nagercoil at a suitable evening time and reach Bengaluru before 7:00 AM, ensuring a seamless overnight journey. Similarly, the return service should leave Bengaluru after 6:00 PM, allowing passengers to complete their workday before travel.
“A rationalised timetable will transform this service into a truly passenger-friendly overnight train, benefiting both working professionals and students,” he added.
In addition, the association has demanded the extension of the service up to Kanniyakumari, which would further strengthen connectivity to India’s southernmost tip and cater to a wider commuter base.
“Extending the train to Kanniyakumari will not only enhance accessibility but also boost regional mobility and tourism,” Sreeram noted.
The appeal comes at a crucial time, with railway authorities expected to finalise the upcoming timetable revisions. The association expressed hope that the Ministry would take a “compassionate and pragmatic view” of the long-pending demand.
