Machilipatnam Passengers Seek Better Train Connectivity, Station Facilities
Vijayawada divisional railway manager Mohit Sonakiya, the chief guest, stressed the need for sustained efforts by railway personnel: Reports
VIJAYAWADA: Passengers have sought safer platform access, improved station amenities and better train connectivity from Machilipatnam during a Rail Jan Samvaad programme organised by the Vijayawada division of South Coast Railway on Saturday.
Around 140 people, including railway officials, passengers, local public representatives and frontline staff, attended the programme following the conclusion of the Swachhata Pakhwada campaign held from October 1 to 15.
Vijayawada divisional railway manager Mohit Sonakiya, the chief guest, stressed the need for sustained efforts by railway personnel and public cooperation to maintain cleanliness at stations and aboard trains. He highlighted public participation in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of a modern, clean and passenger-friendly railway system.
During the interaction, student J. Chakravarthi requested that Train No. 67270 between Machilipatnam and Vijayawada operate from Platform No. 1 to prevent passengers from rushing across tracks to reach Platforms No. 2 and 3, posing safety risks. Sk Jaherabi sought lifts to Platforms No. 2 and 3 to assist senior citizens and other passengers.
K. Vaasu sought the extension of Train No. 17219 to Palasa, citing the sizeable North Andhra population in and around Machilipatnam. Vijaya Ratnam urged the restoration of Train Nos. 17245 and 17246 between Machilipatnam and Tirupati, which operated before the Covid-19 pandemic. Another passenger sought the extension of the Pinakini Express to Machilipatnam to benefit travellers from the Krishna Delta region.
Local public representatives submitted a memorandum listing public requirements and passenger grievances. The division said the suggestions would be examined by the concerned authorities for necessary action, subject to operational feasibility and applicable procedures.
During Swachhata Pakhwada, the division conducted cleanliness drives on platforms, foot overbridges, in waiting areas, toilets, catering facilities, offices and trackside locations. The activities included garbage removal, clearance of unauthorised posters and banners, cleaning of paan- and gutka-stained surfaces, and awareness campaigns on the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026.
The campaign also promoted plantation under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, passenger participation through Meri Seat Mera Dabba, and waste segregation. Fifteen stations and the Vijayawada Electric Loco Shed were registered as Bulk Waste Generators under the waste management rules.
The division appealed to passengers to avoid littering and cooperate with railway staff to maintain cleanliness and improve passenger amenities.