Home / Business and Economy / Railways Gear Up for Attukal Pongala Chaos
Railways Gear Up for Attukal Pongala Chaos
2 Mar
Summary
- Train departures will use specific platforms for Pongala.
- Temporary holding areas manage passenger entry to platforms.
- Four medical aid posts and three ambulances will be available.
The Southern Railway is making comprehensive arrangements to facilitate a safe and smooth journey for passengers and devotees during the Attukal Pongala on Tuesday. Vehicle parking at Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is strictly regulated due to special arrangements. Trains heading towards Kollam Junction will depart from Platforms 1, 2, 3, and 4, while those towards Nagercoil will leave from Platform 5.
Passenger entry to platforms will be managed through three temporary holding areas to prevent overcrowding. Unreserved tickets can be purchased here, with platform access granted only when trains are ready. Additional ticket counters will be available near these areas. Reserved ticket holders can use the main entrance directly. Approximately 12 trains will have a one-minute stop at Thiruvananthapuram Pettah station for passenger convenience.
Entry points at the Power House Road side are closed. Pilgrims from East Fort and Power House Road should use the Residency Road or M.G. Road Overbridges to reach the Thampanoor side for station entry. Those arriving from the Thycaud side or Residency Road Overbridge must use New Theatre Road. Entrances via the M.G. Road Overbridge and RMS side can be accessed through the Railway Parcel Gate or the Main Entrance at Thampanoor.
For smooth exit post-Pongala, specific arrangements are in place for passengers arriving on Train Nos. 12081, 20631, and 22627 between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., utilizing the middle Foot Overbridge and Higginbothams Exit.
The Medical Branch has set up four fully equipped Medical Aid Posts at key locations, staffed by doctors, nurses, and St. John Ambulance Brigade members. Three ambulances are stationed nearby for prompt response. These posts will be stocked with emergency medicines and essential equipment.
Safety instructions are in effect, prohibiting the lighting of Pongala hearths within railway premises. Additionally, five unreserved special trains will operate, and other trains will have additional stoppages or rescheduled services to accommodate passengers and devotees.
