Chennai, 23 February (H.S.) : Southern Railway has officially announced significant disruptions and changes to train services between Tirupati and Katpadi due to essential engineering works scheduled from February 23 to April 13, 2026.
According to a press release issued by the authorities in Chennai, several key services will be fully cancelled or short-terminated on select dates throughout this period to facilitate the maintenance and upgrade of the rail infrastructure. The affected dates include Mondays and Fridays spanning across February, March, and the first half of April.
Specifically, the MEMU trains 67205 (Tirupati–Katpadi) and 67210 (Katpadi–Tirupati) will be fully cancelled on February 23, 27; March 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30; and April 3, 6, 10, and 13. Furthermore, the Villupuram–Tirupati Intercity Express (Train No. 16854) will be partially cancelled between Katpadi and Tirupati, meaning the service will be short-terminated at Katpadi.
In the return direction, Train No. 16853 (Tirupati–Villupuram Intercity Express) will also be partially cancelled between Tirupati and Katpadi, with the journey commencing from Katpadi at 4:45 PM instead of its usual origin at Tirupati.
Southern Railway officials have advised passengers to check updated schedules and train timings before planning their travel to avoid any inconvenience. These updates are particularly important for daily commuters and pilgrims traveling between Chennai and the temple city of Tirupati.
Additional information regarding alternative transport arrangements or refund processes can be accessed through the official railway portals. Authorities emphasized that these temporary modifications are necessary for long-term safety and operational efficiency on this vital rail corridor.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary
