Demand for additional coaches, Cansaulim halt
Devotees travelling to the renowned Velankanni shrine may get improved rail connectivity this year, with plans underway to operate three special trains between Vasco da Gama and Velankanni during the pilgrimage season.
August D'Costa, a member of the Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee nominated by South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes, said a crucial meeting regarding the Velankanni special train service was held at Hubballi on May 27.
According to D'Costa, railway authorities have decided to operate three special trains between Vasco and Velankanni.
“The first train is expected to leave Vasco on August 27, while the last train will depart from Velankanni on November 8. This will provide a major boost to thousands of devotees from Goa and neighbouring regions who travel annually to the holy shrine,” D'Costa said.
He stated that several suggestions were placed before railway authorities to improve passenger convenience and accommodate the growing demand for the pilgrimage service.
“We have requested that the train depart from Vasco at 9 am and leave Velankanni at 11.30 pm so that passengers can travel more comfortably and reach their destinations at convenient hours,” he said.
D'Costa also highlighted the need for additional capacity, noting that demand for seats on the Velankanni service remains extremely high every year.
“We have asked the Railways to provide a full-length train with newly added coaches capable of accommodating around 84 passengers in each coach. This will help reduce the long waiting lists and ensure that more devotees get confirmed tickets,” he said.
Another key demand raised during the meeting was the inclusion of a halt at Cansaulim station instead of Majorda.
“We have requested a stop at Cansaulim as it will be more convenient for devotees from Cortalim and surrounding villages. The halt will improve accessibility for a large number of passengers travelling to Velankanni,” D'Costa said.
He further urged railway authorities to shift the local Vasco-Kulem passenger train to Platform No. 1 at Vasco railway station.
“Passengers often rush across the foot overbridge while changing platforms, creating safety concerns. Shifting the train to Platform No. 1 will help ease congestion and reduce the risk of accidents,” D'Costa added.
Railway authorities are expected to take a final decision on the operational details of the special services in the coming weeks.
