Chennai, Sept 4:
A new air-conditioned electric multiple unit (EMU) train is expected to be introduced on the Chennai Central-Arakkonam suburban section within a week, providing an additional comfortable travel option for commuters from the city’s western suburbs.
The new AC EMU, manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory in Perambur, has been handed over to Southern Railway and preparations are under way to introduce it into passenger service.
The train will operate through important suburban stations including Avadi, Tiruvallur, Tiruninravur and Ambattur.
Railway officials have prepared a timetable and sent it for approval. The services are expected to be planned around office hours to benefit government and private sector employees travelling between Chennai and suburban areas.
Chennai already has an AC EMU service operating between Chennai Beach and Chengalpattu. Though the service initially received a lukewarm response, demand has increased as commuters have begun preferring air-conditioned suburban travel.
The proposed Chennai Central-Arakkonam service is aimed particularly at improving commuting options for passengers from the western suburbs.