12-coach Memu train in Ernakulam -Kollam route soon

KOCHI: Kerala will get its first 12-coach advanced Mainline Electrical Multiple Unit (Memu) train next month. The three-phase train will run between Ernakulam and Kollam.


The coaches will have facilities like passenger information system , GPS, CCTV cameras , public address system and LED lights.

The state will also get one more three-phase Memu train , which is likely to run between Kollam and Kanyakumari.

The train will have three motor cars and nine trailer cars. Currently, a Memu train with similar features is operating services from Ernakulam but it has only eight coaches. “The new train can accommodate more passengers compared to existing ones. Around four Memu trains operate to neighbouring districts from Ernakulam. Three-phase Memu trains have more accelerating speed. Normal passenger trains take around 10 minutes to brake at a station and gain speed to resume journey. But a three-phase Memu train needs only three minutes for the same,” said a railway official.

The new train has designed seats, air bellows for secondary suspension for comfort riding, carrying capacity of 2,402 passengers (sitting 614 and standing 1,788) and bio-toilets. The cabins of motormen and guard are air-conditioned.

The train is indigenously manufactured by Integral Coach Factory and has energy efficient electric traction propulsion system supported by regenerative braking that can save up to 35% energy compared to conventional Memu trains.