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Taking A Trip To Coimbatore
Coimbatore, a major metropolitan city in Tamil Nadu, is located on the banks of the Noyyal River. Known as the ‘textile capital’ of South India, Coimbatore is surrounded by the western ghats. With a population of around 16 lakh, it is the third-largest city in the state.
Coimbatore is a major hub for manufacturing, education, and healthcare and is among India’s fastest-growing tier-II cities. Coimbatore has more than 25,000 small, medium, and heavy industries, with primary industries in textiles and engineering. It is known as the ‘Manchester of India’ due to the extensive textile industries, fed by the surrounding cotton fields. The city’s heavy industrialisation base has led to the growth of trade unions.
Coimbatore is known for its tourist attractions, ranging from science centres and museums to gardens and amusement parks. It also has a few well-known temples. You can explore the regional science centre, Indira Gandhi Wild Life Sanctuary and National Park, Maharaja Theme Park, and a few places of worship like Subramaniasamy Temple, Arulmigu Patteswarar Temple, and Masaniamman Temple.
Coimbatore is an entry and exit to Kerala and Ooty, a popular hill station in South India. People often take a mountain train from Mettupalayam to Ooty which is only 35 km away or take a road trip from Ooty which is 70 km away from Coimbatore. The route offers scenic views.
Overview of Coimbatore Suburban Railways
Coimbatore Broad Gauge Metro Railway Cum Coimbatore Suburban Railway is planned for Coimbatore. Coimbatore Suburban Railways also known as Kovai Metro Cum Suburban Railway, is a circular line. This circular line connects the crucial parts of Coimbatore city, helping to reduce road congestion.
Routes of Coimbatore Suburban Railways
Coimbatore Jn – Mettupalayam
- Track Length: 36 km
- Stations (6): Coimbatore Jn., Coimbatore North, Thudiyalur, Periyanaickenpalayam, Karamadai, Mettupalayam
| Rolling Stock | WDM-2, WDM-3A, WDM-3D, WDG-3A diesel locos; and WAP-7 and WAP-4 electric locos |
| Electrification and Cost | Completed in 2015 with a cost of Rs. 28 crore |
Coimbatore Jn. – Pollachi Jn.
- Track Length: 46 km
- Stations (4): Coimbatore Jn., Podanur Jn., Kinattukkadavu, Pollachi Jn.
| Rolling Stock | WAP-4, WDM-2, WDG-3, WDP-3, WDM-3 |
| Opening | Reopened in 2017 after getting closed in 2008 for gauge conversion |
| Defunct Stations on the Route | Chettipalayam, Nallatipalayam, Koilpalayam and Tamaraikulam |
Coimbatore Jn – Tiruppur
- Track Length: Approximately 50 km
Coimbatore Jn – Palakkad Jn
- Track Length: Approximately 50 km
| The route connects Coimbatore with Plakkad in Kerela promoting intercity travel. |
Coimbatore Jn – Irugur Jn – Podanur In – Coimbatore Jn
- Proposed Stations: Bothanur, Singanallur, Peelamedu, Vadakovai, Periyanayakanpalayam, Karamadai, and Mettupalayam
| This is a circular as well as an urban line that has been proposed for both metro and mainline routes. |
Key Specifications of Coimbatore Suburban Railway
| Speed and Track | Operating Speed: 110 km/h |
| Track Gauge: 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm) broad gauge | |
| Safety and Electrification | Signalling: Railway Signalling |
| Electrification: Coimbatore Suburban Railways operate on a 25 kV, 50 Hz AC through overhead catenary. |
Challenges Faced By Coimbatore Suburban Railways
1.Dedicated Tracks
Coimbatore suburban railways face challenges as it does not have dedicated tracks for the local or suburban railways. These suburban railways run on the mainline tracks. It results in delays and affects the frequency of the trains.
Restoring the Defunct Stations
The locals demand the restoration of defunct stations- Chettipalayam, Nallatipalayam, Koilpalayam and Tamaraikulam. It would help the residents of these particular areas to access public transport, and improve the connectivity between Coimbatore and the neighbouring regions.
Benefits of Coimbatore Suburban Railways
1.Population Growth
The population of Coimbatore is rising rapidly. As it has a good industrial base, many people migrate to the city in search of job opportunities. Suburban Railways was initiated due to the rising population and to enhance the city’s connectivity with its suburban areas. People could then travel via public transport and reach their destination on time. It is also a positive step towards the environment.
2.Industrial Growth
Coimbatore has a rapidly rising industrial base, and most of the industries are set up on the city’s outskirts. With more industries and job opportunities, there is a demand for effective transportation facilities. It would help to commute goods and services easily. The suburban railways made travel easy and raised the output of people.
3. Congested Roads
Coimbatore’s roads are congested and reaching a destination makes it difficult and frustrating. The high usage of private transport also leads to air pollution. The suburban railway helps to reduce road congestion, easing travel for the people.
4.Connecting Neighbouring Cities
Suburban Railways connect the city with the suburban regions. It promotes regional development and economic growth of the city.
Conclusion
The Coimbatore Suburban Railways is a transformative step for the city’s transportation infrastructure. The suburban railways address important issues such as road congestion and environmental impact and are a crucial development to enhance urban mobility and connectivity. With its broad gauge, electrified tracks, and well-planned routes, the Coimbatore Suburban Railways are set to meet the demands of the growing population and industries.
By linking key areas within Coimbatore and connecting them to neighbouring cities, this rail network will facilitate smoother daily commutes and lead to regional economic development. As Coimbatore continues to expand its industrial and demographic footprint, the suburban railways will play an essential role in sustaining the city’s growth, improving the quality of life for its residents, and achieving environmental sustainability goals.
