Suburban trains get 12-car upgrade, space for 4 lakh commuters more
Chennai: To reduce passenger congestion,
Southern Railway
converted all nine-car Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) rakes into 12-car rakes across key sections of the suburban rail network. This upgrade enables the network to accommodate nearly four lakh additional commuters every day.
The augmentation was carried out in phases at the EMU car shed at Avadi and now covers the major corridors — Chennai Beach-Chengalpet, Chennai Central-Arakkonam, and Chennai Central-Gummidipoondi/Sullurupeta. These routes are part of the southwest and northeast lines, which witness some of the highest footfalls in the suburban system.
According to an official release, the Chennai division currently facilitates daily travel of around 1.2 million passengers, including 8.6 lakh suburban commuters.
The addition of three coaches a rake resulted in a 21% increase in seating capacity. This allows for an additional 4 lakh passengers to be accommodated every day.
You Can Also Check:
Chennai AQI
|
Weather in Chennai
|
Bank Holidays in Chennai
|
Public Holidays in Chennai
Railway authorities expect the upgrade to substantially ease overcrowding, particularly during peak hours. "The additional capacity is likely to improve both comfort and safety for regular commuters using the busy suburban network," the release said.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You
Reportingly
Undo
"Every morning, all the coaches are packed to the brim, with passengers clinging to door handles or hanging on from the edges. Even women and senior citizens are forced to risk their lives just to reach the city," said T Sadagopan, a resident-activist from Pattabiram. "What happened recently in Mumbai, where four people died, could very well have happened here. This expansion will at least give commuters some breathing room.
"
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
5 things Indians always ask before booking a cruise; and what they should really be asking
India's appetite for travel has grown exponentially, and cruising — once seen as a niche luxury — is slowly gaining ground. Yet, for many Indian travelers, the idea of setting sail still comes with a lot of hesitation. After speaking with hundreds of potential cruisers, we've identified the most frequently asked questions — and what savvy travelers should be asking instead. Will I get Indian food or vegetarian meals on the cruise? What they should be asking : What kind of culinary experiences does the cruise offer — and how can I explore global cuisines while still getting my comfort food? Yes, most modern cruise liners catering to Indian audiences have already solved this concern. From Jain meals to masala chai, you'll find an Indian touch onboard. But what's even more exciting is the opportunity to explore global cuisine — fresh Mediterranean fare, sizzling Teppanyaki, classic Italian, and even live sushi counters. It's a gourmet world tour at sea. So while the dal-chawal is available, it's also a chance to explore and experiment. Isn't cruising meant for old people? What they should be asking : What kind of onboard experiences cater to different age groups — especially for families and younger travelers? This myth needs to retire. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Today's cruises are designed like floating cities — with everything from Broadway-style shows and water parks to skydiving simulators, adventure sports zones, comedy clubs, fitness boot camps, and curated kids' zones. Whether you're 8 or 80, there's entertainment tailored for you. Some cruises even have Instagrammable wellness retreats and nightlife rivaling that of top metros. How much does a cruise cost? Isn't it a luxury? What they should be asking : What's included in the cruise fare — and how does the value compare to a land-based holiday? Cruising sounds fancy — but many are surprised to learn how inclusive the experience is. Your fare typically covers accommodation, all meals, entertainment, pools, kids' activities, and multiple destinations (without the need to constantly unpack!). When compared with flights + hotels + meals + sightseeing, a cruise can actually be more cost-effective — especially for group or family travel. What do I do in the middle of the sea? Won't it be boring? What they should be asking : What kind of shore excursions and onboard itineraries are available — and how do I personalise my experience? Modern cruise ships are destinations in themselves. From sunrise yoga by the deck to wine tasting at noon, an art auction in the afternoon, a quick zipline ride post-lunch, and live theatre by night — there's no room for boredom. Add to that curated shore excursions (think snorkeling in the Andamans, exploring Greek ruins, or shopping in Singapore) and your itinerary will be packed with experiences you'll remember forever. Will I get seasick? What they should be asking : What measures do cruise ships take to ensure a comfortable voyage — and what should I know as a first-time cruiser? Today's cruise liners are engineering marvels — equipped with stabilisers and medical staff onboard. Routes are planned for calm seas, and most first-timers find they don't even notice the movement. But yes, motion sickness patches and a quick chat with the onboard doctor can ease any worries. A balcony room and spending time outdoors also help. Cruising is not just a way to travel — it's a way to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and explore the world in a new light. Instead of focusing on outdated assumptions, Indian travelers should embrace the opportunities cruises offer — comfort, value, diversity, and adventure. The sea is calling — and it's anything but boring. (By: Shiju Radhakrishnan, Founder & CEO,
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Radisson Group looking at doubling hotel portfolio in India: South Asia MD Nikhil Sharma
Belgium-headquartered Radisson Hotel Group is eyeing to double its portfolio in India in the next few years, from over 200 operational hotels at present, with a focus on a sustainable and inclusive growth model, according to a senior company official. In an interview to PTI, Radisson Hotel Group Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer for South Asia Nikhil Sharma said its hotel in Pahalgam is currently operating at an occupancy rate of 20-30 per cent of what the occupancies were last year, in the aftermath of the recent terror attack on tourists that shook the nation. Notably, Radisson is the largest luxury hotel chain in Jammu and Kashmir , with seven hotels in operation, including five in the valley, and 2-3 hotels in the pipeline. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Gentle Japanese hair growth method for men and women's scalp Hair's Rich Learn More Undo "We are, I would say, operating between 20 to 30 per cent in cities like Pahalgam. So in Srinagar, we are about 50 per cent of what the occupancies were last year. Last year, about 35 lakh tourists came into the valley. "This year, we are not seeing those numbers. But I truly believe that Kashmir is an all-weather destination, and we are going to be working with the government, making sure that we promote tourism in all seasons," Nikhil shared. Live Events He asserted that Radisson Hotels Group will require an additional workforce of 16,000 in India, as it ramps up its presence in the country with 8,000 keys in the pipeline, and growth centred around Tier-II, Tier-III and Tier-IV cities. Radisson Hotels Group's currently has around 19,000 employees. "This year we will open 20 hotels. In the last five years, we've signed 51 hotels, which has been the highest signings ever. Last year itself, we did 36 signings. ...Our growth will be in Tier-II, Tier-III, Tier-IV, cities, or even destinations that we want to be flag planters," he said. Nikhil shared that Radisson is looking at eventually doubling its portfolio in India in the next few years, because it's a "golden era" for the company, while underscoring the need for sustainable and inclusive growth and ensuring that the local community gets hired and works in its hotels. "We have close to 19,000 employees at the moment and every room takes 1.2 to 1.9 team members. We have a pipeline of about 8,000 more keys that we are going to be developing. So another 16,000 team members at any given point of time will be joining us in the near future," Sharma said.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Cloudburst, heavy rains wreak havoc in Uttarakhand: Char Dham yatra halted, workers missing, landslides hit highways
Relief work ongoing after landslide in Uttarakhand (Image: Uttarakhand Police) DEHRADUN: A devastating cloudburst in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi triggered widespread damage and chaos. leaving several workers missing, landslide and disrupting key pilgrimage routes in Uttarakhand. In the aftermath, the state government on Sunday suspended the Char Dham Yatra for 24 hours, citing a heavy rain alert and continuing weather-related risks. The incident has also led to blockages on crucial stretches of the Badrinath and Yamunotri highways, stranding pilgrims and prompting emergency response efforts. Yatra halted amid safety concerns Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that the Char Dham Yatra had been paused as a precautionary measure. 'I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag and Vikasnagar,' he told ANI. Nine workers missing after cloudburst The cloudburst struck Silai Band on the Barkot–Yamunotri road late Saturday, triggering flash floods. The deluge caused severe damage to an under-construction hotel site at Baligarh, where 8-9 labourers were staying. All of them are currently reported missing. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Woman Discovers Buried Bunker in Her Garden, Then Sees the Reason Crowdy Fan Undo Uttarkashi District Magistrate Prashant Arya confirmed the incident, adding that the Yamunotri route had also sustained significant damage. Over 40,000 cut off as 72 roads blocked across Kumaon Heavy rain on Saturday triggered widespread disruption across Uttarakhand, blocking 72 roads and cutting off over 40,000 people in the Kumaon region. Multiple villages were plunged into darkness due to snapped power lines, and emergency restoration efforts are underway in the worst-hit districts — Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh. Authorities have also imposed a night travel ban on Char Dham highways to minimise risks from potential landslides and muckslides. The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) has warned of more rainfall across several districts on Sunday and Monday, based on IMD forecasts. Read more: 72 roads blocked, 40k people cut off Landslides block Badrinath Highway Heavy overnight rainfall led to landslides that blocked the Badrinath National Highway near Nandprayag and Bhanerpani. The route is vital for pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines, prompting urgent restoration efforts. Chamoli Police posted on X, 'The Badrinath National Highway is blocked near Nandprayag and Bhanerpani. Work is underway to open the road.' Yamunotri route also affected In addition to the Badrinath highway, the Yamunotri Marg has been heavily impacted by flood debris and road damage. Pilgrimage to Yamunotri has been disrupted, and traffic movement remains restricted as a result of the cloudburst. Additionally, Landslide also occured at the Yamunotri highway washing away 10-12 meter of the path. "Heavy landslide in Silai Band on Yamunotri Highway due to excessive rainfall. 9 workers missing, 10 rescued and safely evacuated. 10-12 meter section of the highway washed away. NDRF, and police are engaged in relief and rescue operations," said the Uttarakhand police in a statement. Rescue operations in full swing Search and rescue operations were launched immediately by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police. Efforts are underway to locate the missing workers and secure the affected zones. Disaster response on high alert Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management, said the government is closely monitoring the situation. 'All departments have been directed to remain on standby and take necessary measures for the safety of residents and pilgrims,' he said, quoted by ANI. CM Dhami urges public caution Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami appealed to citizens to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. 'Given the forecast of heavy rainfall in hilly and some plain areas of the state, people are advised to stay alert,' he said. Weather forecast remains grim The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across several parts of Uttarakhand over the next 24 hours. Authorities are maintaining high alert across districts vulnerable to flash floods and landslides. Authorities urge restraint In view of the evolving situation, authorities have asked pilgrims and locals to avoid venturing into landslide-prone zones and to follow official advisories. Restoration of blocked highways remains a priority.
