🚆 Kerala Gets Rail Boost: 4 Special Trains Made Permanent, Express Service Extended

Thiruvananthapuram, March 20, 2026:
In a major relief for passengers in Kerala, Southern Railway has announced the regularisation of four special train services along with the extension of one express train, improving connectivity and travel convenience across the state.

Special Trains Now Become Permanent

The Railway Board has approved converting four fully unreserved special trains into regular services, ensuring consistent availability for passengers who previously depended on temporary or seasonal operations.

These include a mix of:

• Antyodaya Express service
• Fully unreserved express train
• Passenger train services

This move is expected to reduce uncertainty around ticket availability and improve travel planning.

Key Routes Get Stronger Connectivity

Among the important services upgraded:

• Thiruvananthapuram North – Mangaluru Antyodaya Express will now run as a regular weekly service
• Palakkad – Kannur Express has been made a permanent daily service

These routes connect major cities across Kerala, benefiting both long-distance travelers and daily commuters.

Express Service Extended

In addition to regularising special trains, Southern Railway has also extended the operation of one express service, helping manage increasing passenger demand, especially during peak travel seasons.

Better Travel Planning for Passengers

Earlier, these trains were operated as “special services,” often limited to festive or high-demand periods. With permanent status:

• Passengers can now book tickets in advance with confidence
• Travel schedules become more predictable and reliable
• Crowd management improves during peak seasons

Boost for Tourism & Daily Travel

The decision is expected to benefit:

• Tourists traveling across Kerala’s popular destinations
• Office commuters and students
• Intercity passengers relying on affordable rail transport

Improved train frequency and availability will also support tourism growth, especially during summer and holiday seasons.

What This Means for Travelers

For passengers in Kerala:

• More regular train services instead of temporary specials
• Better connectivity between key cities
• Easier trip planning with confirmed schedules

FlipMyTravel Insight

This move shows Indian Railways’ focus on converting high-demand special trains into permanent services, making travel more reliable, accessible, and budget-friendly, especially in a high-demand state like Kerala.