
Tue Jan 13 14:35:58 UTC 2026: # Southern Railways Enhance Services for Sabarimala Pilgrims Ahead of Makaravilakku Festival
The Story:
Southern Railways has announced extensive arrangements for the upcoming Makaravilakku festival, a significant event for Sabarimala pilgrims. The railway network is set to operate 336 special train services to ensure smooth, safe, and comfortable travel for devotees. Additional Makaravilakku Special Express trains will be run to accommodate the expected surge in passenger numbers. Key routes connecting Kollam, Kakinada Town, Thiruvananthapuram, and Charlapalli are included in the expanded service plan.
Key Points:
- 336 special train services will operate for the Makaravilakku festival.
- Train No. 06065 Kollam – Kakinada Town Express Special departs Kollam Junction at 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
- Train No. 06067 Thiruvananthapuram Central – Charlapalli Express Special leaves Thiruvananthapuram Central at 4:10 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
- Pilgrims can utilize approximately 20 services with stops at Chengannur after the Makaravilakku.
- Several trains, including train nos. 07114, 06065, 06067, 06120, and 06548, are designated as Makaravilakku special trains.
Key Takeaways:
- Southern Railways is proactively addressing the increased demand for transportation during the Makaravilakku festival.
- The special train services aim to provide a comfortable and safe travel experience for Sabarimala pilgrims.
- The notification of specific trains as Makaravilakku specials assists pilgrims in identifying and utilizing the designated services.