Southern Railway introduces its first Vistadome coach in Madurai Division

The Southern Railway has introduced its first ever Vistadome coach in Madurai Division on Train Nos. 16327/16328 Madurai Junction— Guruvayur— Madurai Junction Express on a temporary trial basis. The service commenced on Thursday from Madurai Railway Junction.

According to a statement issued by the Southern Railway, the Vistadome coach was equipped with wide glass windows and a panoramic glass roof to offer the passengers a breathtaking view of mountains, valleys, forests and lush greenery, thereby transforming the journey into a memorable experience.

The train connected two prominent pilgrimage centres: Madurai in Tamil Nadu and Guruvayur in Kerala. The major attraction of the journey was the picturesque Sengottai— Punalur ghat section, which wound through the Western Ghats, the statement said.

The historic Pathimoonnu Kannara bridge, popularly known as 13-Arch Bridge, besides numerous bridges and tunnels along the route showcased the engineering excellence of the railway section, the statement said.

The Vistadome coach had a capacity of 42 passengers in the Executive Chair Car seating with rotatable seats and pushback chairs, and modern toilet facilities. The wide glass windowpanes and switch-operated glass roof can be changed between transparent and translucent modes.

According to the statement, the coach attached to Train No. 16327, departing from Madurai junction, would operate on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and Train No. 16328 departing from Guruvayur would operate on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.

The fare from Madurai Junction to Punalur was ₹1,010; to Kollam ₹1,140; to Ernakulam Town ₹1,570; and to Guruvayur ₹1,875. Through this initiative, the Southern Railway aimed at enhancing passenger experience, promoting rail tourism and showcasing the scenic beauty and engineering marvels of its railway network, the statement added.

Madurai MP Su. Venkatesan took a look at the Vistadome coach. Addressing journalists, he said this would provide an opportunity for people to learn about the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats through nature. He urged the people to make use of this opportunity. Many people, apart from passengers, clicked pictures of the coach at Madurai Junction.