Hibi Eden, MP, has proposed that the development of the existing marshalling yard at Ponnurunni into a railway terminal be expedited.

Suggesting that the new terminal be named Ernakulam Central Railway Station, he said the proposed facility would augment rail infrastructure in Kerala and decongest existing stations in Ernakulam, besides catering to the growing passenger and operational requirements.

The MP submitted the proposal at a high-level meeting of the Railways held in Chennai. The meeting was convened by Southern Railway General Manager R.N. Singh following a suggestion by Mr. Eden to discuss railway development in the Ernakulam parliamentary constituency, according to a communication.

Mr. Eden also proposed the redevelopment of the Ernakulam Junction railway station and optimum utilisation of railway land. He suggested the expeditious completion of works at the Ernakulam Town railway station.

It was proposed that Ernakulam Town, Ernakulam Junction, and Thripunithura stations be connected with the nearby metro stations through dedicated foot overbridges. Strengthening surveillance and enforcement by the Railway Protection Force to prevent trafficking of narcotic substances through railway stations was also stressed.

It was pointed out that priority should be given to ensuring quality, hygiene, and affordability of food served at railway stations and in trains. It was also proposed that the Edappally railway station be upgraded to harness its full potential and to ease the growing congestion at Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town stations.