Thiruvananthapuram, 01 March (H.S.): In view of the Attukal Pongala festival and the massive influx of devotees expected in the city, the Railways has announced special arrangements at Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station from March 1 to March 3, 2026. Strict parking regulations will be enforced during this period to manage traffic congestion and ensure smooth passenger movement around the station premises.
Railway authorities have informed that the second entrance to the station on the Power House Road side has been completely closed due to ongoing redevelopment works. As a result, passengers, particularly pilgrims travelling for Pongala, have been advised to use alternative entry points to access the station.
Travellers can enter the station through the main entrance on the Thampanoor side, the Parcel Office side and Premium Parking entrance, or the underpass located near the overbridge close to the Thycaud Women and Children’s Hospital. Officials said these measures are intended to streamline crowd flow and prevent bottlenecks during peak hours.
On March 3, the day of Pongala, special platform allocations have been made to facilitate departures. Trains heading towards Kollam Junction will operate from Platforms 1, 2, 3 and 4, while trains bound for Nagercoil will depart from Platform 5. Entry to platforms will be permitted strictly according to train schedules in order to avoid overcrowding.
To handle the expected surge in ticket demand, additional ticket counters will be set up near designated holding areas within the station. Passengers holding reserved tickets will be allowed direct entry through the main entrance portico to ensure smoother access.
In addition, select trains will be provided with a temporary one-minute stoppage at Thiruvananthapuram Pettah railway station for the convenience of reserved passengers. This step is aimed at easing congestion at the Central station during the festival rush.
Railway officials have urged passengers to follow the revised arrangements, cooperate with authorities, and plan their travel in advance to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey during the Pongala celebrations.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
