The Oachira Railway Station Vikasana Samithi (ORSVS) is spearheading a movement to significantly improve facilities and increase train services at the Oachira railway station in Kerala.
According to T.J. Unnikrishnan, the general convener of ORSVS, the current schedule, which includes only 19 trains stopping in each direction, falls far short of serving the vast needs of residents across seven grama panchayats in Kollam and Alappuzha districts, alongside a multitude of other commuters. He emphasized the station’s strategic importance, being just 2 km from the renowned Oachira Parabrahma Temple, which draws approximately 10 lakh devotees annually, especially during major festivals and the Sabarimala season. Beyond religious tourism, the station is a crucial access point for Amritapuri Ashram, Amritapuri Educational Institutions, Darul Uloom AL Islamiyya, Sayyid Hasani Academy, Azheekkal Beach, and Azheekkal Fishing Harbour.
“Given the diverse requirements of tourists, pilgrims, students, and daily commuters, the existing infrastructure at Oachira railway station is simply not up to par. As a vital crossing station, its full potential remains untapped,” stated Mr. Unnikrishnan. “Upgrading its amenities and dramatically increasing the number of train stoppages are absolutely essential to fulfill its purpose and cater to the ever-growing demands of its users.”
The ORSVS pointed out that over 500 daily commuters from Oachira and nearby panchayats are forced to use other stations because no express trains stop at Oachira during crucial morning and evening hours.
“We are earnestly requesting that at least one express train traveling between Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam makes a stop here in both the morning and evening. This would be a tremendous relief for all office-goers and the general public,” Mr. Unnikrishnan elaborated.
Furthermore, the Samithi is demanding the reinstatement of train stoppages that were in place before the COVID-19 pandemic for trains 16327 and 16328 (the Guruvayur-Madurai Express).
With the Vrishchika Mahotsavam approaching at the Oachira Parabrahma temple, the ORSVS has also called for temporary halts for key express services including the Malabar, Intercity, Vanchinad, Venad, and Parasuram Express trains between November 15 and November 30.
Essential Station Upgrades
In addition to increased train services, the Samithi is advocating for the extension of the railway station’s platforms, the construction of a proper approach road, and the provision of adequate parking facilities for commuters’ vehicles.
These pressing demands have been formally presented to K.C. Venugopal, Member of Parliament, and other relevant Railway authorities through a series of detailed memorandums.