Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 23 January 2026 inaugurated a major railway expansion in Kerala by flagging off three Amrit Bharat Express trains and a new passenger train from Thiruvananthapuram. The launch is part of Indian Railways’ ongoing initiative to boost connectivity with modern, affordable passenger services tailored to regional mobility needs.
The Amrit Bharat Express programme bridges the gap between conventional mail/express trains and higher-end services by providing enhanced amenities, safety systems and comfort while maintaining economical fare structures. The new services will support greater inter-state connectivity and facilitate travel between urban centres, pilgrimage destinations, and economic hubs across the southern states.
New Routes and Services Launched
At the ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram, the Prime Minister flagged off the following services:
- Thiruvananthapuram Central – Tambaram Amrit Bharat Express – connecting Kerala’s capital to key urban and industrial centres in Tamil Nadu.
- Nagercoil Junction – Mangaluru Junction Amrit Bharat Express – linking Kerala with coastal Karnataka.
- Thiruvananthapuram North – Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express – forging an important rail link across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Thrissur – Guruvayur Passenger Train – a new daily service aimed at improving regional travel, especially for commuters, students and devotees.
All services are operated by Southern Railway, with introductory runs commencing immediately after the flag-off. Detailed timetables and booking information will be provided through official railway announcements.
What Amrit Bharat Express Trains Offer
Amrit Bharat Express trains are designed with passenger comfort and safety in mind. These services typically feature:
- Spacious interiors with ergonomic seating and sleeper options.
- Improved safety systems such as CCTV cameras in coaches.
- Convenience features including bottle holders, phone charging points and passenger information systems.
- Enhanced accessibility for general and sleeper class travellers at affordable fares.
These trains aim to make travel more comfortable, safe and reliable for both short and long distances, while remaining accessible to a broad spectrum of passengers.
Strategic Connectivity and Regional Benefits
The new services are expected to enhance rail connectivity in southern India by:
- Reducing travel time between major cities and regional centres.
- Supporting economic activities by linking key markets and industrial zones.
- Encouraging tourism by making pilgrim locations and cultural sites easier to reach.
- Enhancing commuter convenience with the new passenger service between Thrissur and Guruvayur.
Officials believe these services will strengthen ties between Kerala and its neighbouring states, further integrating regional transport networks.
Political and Development Context
The train launch coincides with Prime Minister Modi’s broader visit to Kerala, where he also inaugurated various development projects and underscored the central government’s support for the state’s growth trajectory. The initiatives reflect a continued emphasis on infrastructure expansion as a driver of economic and social progress.
