Kochi: The Indian railway catering and tourism corporation (IRCTC) has decided to set up fully air-conditioned executive lounges at Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam railway stations on the lines of one constructed at New Delhi railway stations to facilitate short duration stay for high-end travelers.
“A lot of tourists and business travelers could avoid stay at hotels for temporary stay or waiting for trains. The services include food, toilets and urinals, wash and change, recliners, TV, Wi-Fi, soft beverages, train information display and announcement among others. There will be fees based on slabs which are yet to be decided for the lounges here,” said a senior IRCTC official.
The entry fee at the executive lounge set up at platform No 16 of the New Delhi railway station is Rs 150 for the initial two hours. “However the rates will be lesser here,” the officer said.
Seats in the executive lounge can be booked in advance through online only — www.irctc.co.in. However, the passengers should carry one photo identity proof like PAN card, Voter ID, Passport, Aadhar card and Driving License among others besides a valid train ticket either reserved or unreserved.
While the lounge will be coming up at the old booking office area at Thiruvananthapuram, the one at Ernakulam South would be set up at the northern end of the Platform No 1.
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