Thiruvananthapuram
John Brittas, a CPI-M Rajya Sabha member, has raised concerns with Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw regarding the operational impact of Vande Bharat Express trains on other services. Specifically, he urged the Minister to ensure that regular trains are not significantly delayed to facilitate the smooth running of Vande Bharat Expresses. Kerala currently operates two Vande Bharat Express trains, with routes connecting Thiruvananthapuram to Kasargod, featuring an eight-hour travel time. This is notably quicker than the typical 12-hour-plus duration of other trains operating in the region. Brittas voiced the difficulties faced by commuters on ordinary trains, citing that numerous trains are being held up to accommodate the schedule of Vande Bharat Express, causing delays and inconveniences for passengers, including students. In his plea, Brittas also called for increased general compartments on trains, emphasizing that most trains have only one or two general compartments, leading to passenger inconvenience.
