Dhanbad: After the introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express between Dhanbad and Podanur, another weekly train service to South India may soon be launched. The Dhanbad Railway Division has sent a proposal to the Railway Board, through its headquarters, to operate a clone train of the Dhanbad–Alappuzha (Alleppey) Express.
The division has requested approval for a clone train from Dhanbad via Katpadi to either Alappuzha or Coimbatore. There is a strong possibility that the proposal will be approved, which would provide an additional weekly train for passengers traveling to South India, especially patients heading to Vellore for medical treatment.
Proposal to Run on the Same Route as Alleppey Express
Earlier, in 2023, the Dhanbad Railway Division had also proposed a clone service of the Alleppey Express. However, despite a long wait, the proposal did not receive approval. Now, the proposal has been resubmitted with stronger justification.
The division has requested permission to operate the clone train on the same route and with the same stoppages as the Alleppey Express.
According to the Dhanbad Division, both the Alleppey Express and the weekly Amrit Bharat Express experience heavy passenger demand and long waiting lists. This causes inconvenience to regular travelers as well as patients traveling to Vellore for treatment. The clone train is expected to significantly ease this problem.
Planned Weekly Service from Dhanbad on Saturdays
The proposed clone train is planned to depart from Dhanbad every Saturday. It would travel via Chandrapura, Bokaro, and Ranchi before reaching either Alappuzha or Coimbatore.
The return journey could be operated on Tuesdays. However, the final operational decision will be taken by the Railway Board.
Alleppey and Amrit Bharat Trains Fully Booked Through June
The Dhanbad–Alappuzha Express and the Dhanbad–Podanur Amrit Bharat Express are fully booked throughout June. In the Alleppey Express, seats from Sleeper Class to First AC have already been filled, while the Amrit Bharat Express also has a long waiting list.
Due to the shortage of available seats, both passengers and patients are facing difficulties. The proposed clone train is expected to provide much-needed relief and make travel to South India more convenient.
Source: Dainik Jagran
