Trichy–Tambaram intercity train begins service amid celebrations

Trichy: The Trichy–Tambaram intercity express, connecting multiple towns and cities in the central region with Tambaram and Chennai, on Sunday began its maiden journey from Trichy junction amid celebrations by passengers. This is the first proper main line intercity express being completely operated with seater coaches between Trichy and Tambaram through Cauvery delta districts.Train No 16808/16807 Trichy–Tambaram–Trichy intercity express left Trichy at 5.35am on Sunday. It operates five days a week with two AC chair cars, eight sitting chair cars, and six general chair car coaches. At Thanjavur junction, passengers' welfare associations distributed sweets and shared photocopies of the new train's timetable. "The long-time demand of Cauvery delta districts' rail passengers to reach Chennai during daytime is fulfilled. Intercity trains offer affordable journeys. There are six unreserved coaches to satisfy last-minute travel needs," Revanthkumar R, executive member, Thanjavur district railway users' association (TANDRUA), said.
Since the train will not operate on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, rail users urged Southern Railway to take appropriate measures to operate it on all days. The train originating at Trichy will pass through Thiruverumbur, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, Mayiladuthurai, Chidambaram, Villupuram, and Chengalpattu railway stations, reaching Tambaram by 12.30 pm. In the return direction, the train will leave Tambaram at 3.30pm and reach Trichy Junction by 10.40pm.Earlier, the train operated as a special train (No 06190/06191) between the same destinations. Due to increasing demand from the delta districts, including Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai, as well as representations submitted by MPs and various political parties, Railway Board approved its regularisation as an intercity express on Feb 20.