With highway construction on the Ernakulam–Thrissur stretch of the National Highway (NH) 544 throwing daily life into disarray, Benny Behanan, MP, has urged the Railways to introduce special trains to ease the suffering of commuters.
Meeting Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu in New Delhi on Wednesday, Mr. Behanan submitted a memorandum highlighting the severe traffic chaos caused by ongoing underpass works at Amballur, Perambra, Muringoor, Koratty, and Chirangara. The incomplete state of service roads has worsened the situation, leading to hours-long gridlocks.
“Thousands of students, workers, and patients are stranded on a daily basis. Even passengers heading to the airport are struggling to reach on time,” Mr. Behanan told the Minister.
To provide immediate relief, the MP suggested running special train services between Ernakulam and Thrissur or at least adding extra coaches to existing passenger trains during peak hours.
Swift action
He urged the Railways to act swiftly, stressing that such measures were essential until the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) completes the ongoing works.
Meanwhile, Thrissur District Congress Committee (DCC) president Joseph Tajet said on Tuesday that the Supreme Court’s decision to dismiss the appeal filed by the NHAI against the temporary suspension of toll collection at Paliyekkara is a “historic judgment in favour of the people.”
“As a petitioner in the Kerala High Court, I am extremely happy with the verdict. Every single point we raised has been upheld by the apex court. This gives us renewed strength to continue the fight against the repeated violations of the contract by the toll company,” Mr. Tajet stated.
‘Take a stand’
He added that when the High Court takes up the case again after four weeks, the State government must shed its silence and take a strong stand against the company.
“It is the duty of the government to ensure smooth transportation for the people. The public should not continue to suffer due to the company’s repeated violations,” he said.
Published – August 20, 2025 07:48 pm IST
