The Coimbatore-Mettupalayam MEMU train.
| Photo Credit: File Photo by SIVA SARAVANAN S.
The Podanur Train Users Association has urged the Salem Division of Southern Railway to retain the eight-coach rake of Coimbatore – Mettupalayam MEMU, after its proposed replacement with a 12-coach rake, to boost regional connectivity.In a letter to the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), the association stated that it has been requesting to upgrade Coimbatore – Mettupalayam MEMU from the existing eight-coach rake to a 12-coach rake to meet the growing passenger demand. According to the association, this long-pending request is likely to be implemented from August 10 or August 12 as per information from railway sources.The association has also learnt that the existing eight-coach MEMU rake is proposed to be sent to Chennai after the introduction of the 12-coach MEMU service, stated the letter.It highlighted that there is already a severe shortage of MEMU rakes in the Coimbatore region. MEMU services on Coimbatore - Salem and Coimbatore - Dindigul segments operated in the past have been withdrawn permanently. Simultaneously, train users have consistently been requesting the introduction of a MEMU service on Coimbatore – Pollachi route.The association appealed to the DRM to retain the existing eight-coach MEMU rake in Coimbatore and use it for operating a MEMU service on Coimbatore - Pollachi/Dindigul or Coimbatore - Salem segments for the benefit of thousands of daily commuters and passengers in the region.Association president Mohammed Shakeer and general secretary Subramanian N. said retention of the eight-coach rake in Coimbatore will boost regional connectivity. Published - August 06, 2026 05:41 pm IST
