Call to upgrade Oachira railway station in Kerala and restore train halts

The Oachira Railway Station Vikasana Samithi (ORSVS) has called for upgrading amenities and allowing stops for more trains at the station in Kerala.

T.J. Unnikrishnan, general convener, ORSVS, said that currently only 19 trains halt at Oachira in each direction, which was grossly insufficient to meet the needs of residents from seven grama panchayats in Kollam and Alappuzha districts, as well as other commuters. He noted that the Oachira Parabrahma Temple is situated just 2 km away from the railway station. About 10 lakh devotees visit the temple annually, particularly during temple festivals and the Sabarimala season. Likewise, the railway station also serves Amritapuri Ashram, Amritapuri Educational Institutions, Darul Uloom AL Islamiyya, Sayyid Hasani Academy, Azheekkal Beach, Azheekkal Fishing Harbour, among others.

“Considering the diverse needs of tourists, devotees, students and daily commuters, the current facilities at the Oachira railway station are inadequate. As a key crossing station, its potential remains untapped. Upgrading amenities and increasing train stoppages are crucial to effectively serve its purpose and cater to the growing demands of its users,” Mr. Unnikrishnan said.

The ORSVS said more than 500 office-going natives of Oachira and the surrounding panchayats currently depend on other stations as no express trains halt at Oachira in the morning and evening.

“We request halts for at least one express train plying between Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam in the morning and evening, as it would greatly benefit all office-going commuters and the public,” Mr. Unnikrishnan added.

The ORSVS also demanded the restoration of pre-COVID-19 stoppages for train no 16327 and 16328 (Guruvayur-Madurai Express) at Oachira.

In view of the Vrishchika Mahotsavam at the Oachira Parabrahma temple, the samithi has sought temporary halts for the Malabar, Intercity, Vanchinad, Venad and Parasuram Express trains between November 15 and November 30.

Platform extension

It further called for extending the platform length at the railway station, constructing a proper approach road and providing adequate parking facilities for commuters’ vehicles.

Raising these demands, the ORSVS has submitted memorandums to K.C. Venugopal, MP, and to Railway authorities.