Chennai to Get Second AC EMU Train Soon; Service Likely on Central - Arakkonam Route
Chennai is set to receive its second air-conditioned suburban train service soon, aimed at improving commuter comfort amid increasing passenger demand. The new AC Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) train is likely to be operated on the Central–Arakkonam route.
The first AC suburban train, manufactured by Integral Coach Factory, was launched on April 19 last year and is currently operating on the Chennai Beach–Chengalpattu route. The service has received a strong response from passengers.
Following growing demand, commuters have been requesting additional AC train services, especially during peak hours on busy routes such as Chennai Central–Arakkonam and Beach–Chengalpattu.
Acting on these requests, Southern Railway had recommended the introduction of additional AC EMU services to the Railway Board, which in turn instructed the Integral Coach Factory to manufacture another train set.
The second AC EMU train has already been manufactured and delivered to the Chennai division. It is currently stationed at the Avadi/Annanur railway yard and undergoing multiple safety and performance trials. Test runs are also being conducted on the Central-Arakkonam route.
Railway officials stated that more than 200 suburban train services operate daily on the Chennai Central–Arakkonam corridor, carrying nearly 4 lakh passengers every day. During peak hours, trains are often overcrowded, prompting the need for more AC services.
The new 12-coach AC train can accommodate 1,116 seated passengers and 3,798 standing passengers, with a total capacity of 4,914 commuters.
Authorities are currently evaluating whether to deploy the new service on the Central–Arakkonam route or add another AC train to the Beach–Chengalpattu line. A final decision is expected soon, with plans to launch the service in the near future.
