Tiruvannamalai Railway Station to Become Maintenance Hub for Long-Distance Trains
Photo Credit: Special arrangement via The Hindu
In a major step towards improving railway services in temple towns, the Southern Railway has proposed to convert the existing Tiruvannamalai railway station into a Platform Train Examination (PFTR) terminal. This move will help ensure better maintenance of long-distance trains and provide improved facilities for passengers, especially pilgrims visiting the famous Arunachaleswara temple.
What is a PFTR Terminal?
A PFTR terminal is a facility where trains undergo basic safety checks and civic maintenance. This includes:
- Checking the brakes and axles
- Ensuring water supply in coaches
- Cleaning and disinfecting of compartments
- Lighting and electrical maintenance
- Monitoring train movement while entering and exiting the station
Why Tiruvannamalai Was Chosen
Railway officials said two major reasons led to the decision:
-
Overcrowding at Villupuram Station:
The existing PFTR terminal at Villupuram is becoming too congested, causing delays in train services. -
Rising Number of Pilgrims:
Tiruvannamalai receives a large number of pilgrims regularly, especially during festivals. More long-distance trains are needed to serve these visitors.
The new terminal will have four rail lines for better train movement. Currently, Tiruvannamalai station handles about 15 trains daily and serves over 8,000 passengers on its three platforms.
Station Upgraded with Modern Facilities
The historic British-era Tiruvannamalai station has already been modernised under the Station Redevelopment Project. The revamped station now offers:
- Separate corridors for arrival and departure
- Bright LED lighting
- Escalators, lifts, and skywalks for easy access
- A rainwater harvesting system
Officials say these upgrades will make the station function more like an airport in terms of passenger convenience.
Boost for Local Economy and Tourism
B. Sampath, a local trader, welcomed the move. He said, “With more trains halting here and better maintenance, the railway station will become a busy transport hub. It will also benefit the local economy and pilgrims visiting the Arunachaleswara temple.”
Thanks to its proximity to the new bus terminal and key roads, the upgraded Tiruvannamalai railway station is set to become a major travel hub for southern India.
Final Thoughts by TheTrendingPeople.com:
The decision to make Tiruvannamalai a PFTR terminal is a welcome move for both travellers and railway staff. It ensures safer, cleaner, and more reliable train journeys while also supporting religious tourism. If successful, this model could be replicated in other major temple towns across India.