Sat May 24 11:02:23 UTC 2025: ## Railways Closure of Vellarakkad Station Sparks Outrage Among Commuters
**Kozhikode, May 24, 2025** – The Indian Railways’ decision to close the Vellarakkad halt station in Kozhikode, citing low revenue, has ignited widespread protests among local commuters. The closure, scheduled to take effect on May 26th, will impact residents of Thikkodi, Moodadi, and Koyilandy who rely on the station for affordable travel between Kozhikode and Kannur.
According to sources within the Railways, the closure order has been received from higher authorities and is unlikely to be reconsidered. No trains will stop at Vellarakkad and Chirakkal (Kannur district) halt stations until further notice.
Commuters like Manoharan fear the closure will significantly increase travel expenses for daily commuters, potentially doubling their costs by forcing them to rely on bus services. Local residents had previously successfully protested a similar closure proposal.
Koyilandy MLA Kanathil Jameela has pledged to meet with Railway authorities and State Minister V. Abdurahiman to advocate for the commuters’ needs and seek a reversal of the decision. She described the closure of both Vellarakkad and Chirakkal stations as “unfortunate.”
The closure highlights the ongoing tension between the Railways’ need for economic efficiency and the vital role local stations play in providing affordable transportation for communities. The situation remains tense as commuters brace for the impact of the station closure.
First Piper 