Shoranur Jn.

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Shoranur Junction: The Heart of Kerala’s Railway Network Under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

Shoranur Railway Station devloped under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)

As part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), Shoranur Junction Railway Station in Kerala is undergoing significant transformation to enhance passenger amenities and infrastructure. Shoranur Junction, being a major railway hub in the state, connects several key railway lines and plays a vital role in Kerala’s transportation network. The redevelopment project began in 2023 and is expected to be completed by 2025 at an estimated cost of ₹75 crore. This blog highlights the station’s upgrades, historical importance, passenger amenities, nearby attractions, and more.

Trains Stopping at Shoranur Junction

Shoranur Junction is one of the busiest railway stations in Kerala, serving as a connecting hub for multiple railway lines. It accommodates a wide variety of trains, including Passenger, MEMU, Express, Superfast, Jan Shatabdi, Garib Rath, Rajdhani, and Vande Bharat trains.

Vande Bharat Express at Shoranur Junction

Currently, 139 trains have scheduled stops at Shoranur Junction. While providing the complete list here would be impractical due to its length, you can access detailed information about these trains through the following resources:

If you’re planning your journey or looking for specific train details, these resources will provide you with accurate and up-to-date information.

Changes Taken Place Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme focuses on turning Shoranur Junction into a modern, passenger-friendly hub while preserving its historical significance. Below are the key changes:

1. Infrastructure Upgrades

  • The station will be soon equipped with lifts, and additional foot overbridges (FOBs) to improve accessibility.
  • Platform roofing and flooring are being revamped to provide better comfort to passengers.

2. Enhanced Waiting and Ticketing Facilities

  • A spacious general waiting hall and an AC paid waiting hall are being added, offering passengers more comfort.
  • Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) have been installed at main entry with operator and also self operated to reduce ticketing queues. Here you can buy ticket through QR code.

3. Green Initiatives

  • Installation of solar panels to power station operations, promoting sustainability.
  • Implementation of rainwater harvesting systems to conserve water.

4. Parking and Accessibility

  • A well-organized parking area is being developed for two-wheelers and four-wheelers, along with dedicated parking spaces for differently-abled passengers.

5. Enhanced Safety and Cleanliness

  • Deployment of modern CCTV surveillance systems across platforms and public areas to ensure passenger safety.
  • Enhanced cleanliness protocols and modern toilet facilities are being added for passengers.

Passenger Amenities and Their Locations

Shoranur Junction offers a range of passenger amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers. Here’s an overview of key facilities:

1. Ticket Counter

  • Location: At the main entrance of the station where you can book reserve and unreserve ticket.
  • Features: Dedicated counters for reserved and unreserved tickets, with special counters for differently-abled passengers.

2. Parking Area

  • Location: Adjacent to the station entrance.
  • Features:
    • Separate zones for two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
    • Parking Fees:
      • Two-wheelers: ₹10 for 2 hours, ₹50 for the whole day.
      • Four-wheelers: ₹20 for 2 hours, ₹100 for the whole day.

3. Waiting Halls

  • General Waiting Hall:
    • Location: Near Platform 1.
    • Features: Spacious seating with fans and proper lighting.
  • AC Paid Waiting Hall:
    • Location: It is located in platform no.1.
    • Features: Air-conditioned seating with charging ports, recliners, and digital displays.
    • Price: Rs. 30/Hour

4. Lifts and Escalators

  • Location:
    • Lifts which are available at Platform 1 and Platform 3/4 on the old foot overbridges (FOBs) which is available near to the ticket counter which are in closed due to it is proposed to dismantle.
    • There are 4 lifts erection is under progress under Amrit bharat station scheme for all platform on new FOB (Located End of the Platform Kozhikode end) and it will be in operation from April 2024.
    • Escalators not available in Shoranur Junction

5. Food Stalls and Food Court

  • Food Stalls:
    • Location: Distributed across all platforms for quick snacks and refreshments.
    • Common Offerings:
      • Local snacks (e.g., samosas, vadas, idlis)
      • Packaged snacks like chips and biscuits
      • Refreshing drinks, including tea, coffee, and juices
  • Food Court:
    • Location: Platform 2/3, offering a wider selection with seating arrangements.
    • Common Offerings:
      • A mix of North Indian and South Indian dishes
      • Freshly prepared meals, like parathas, rice-based dishes, dosa, etc.
      • Sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, and other fast food options
      • Beverages, including cold drinks and refreshing fruit juices

6. Toilets

  • Location: Near the entrance and at the end of platforms.
  • Features: Modern facilities for men, women, and differently-abled passengers.

7. Water Coolers

  • Location: water coolers 1 no. available in all platform, ensuring easy access to cool and fresh drinking water.

8. RPF and GRP

  • RPF (Railway Protection Force): Located on platform 2/3 for safety and security. In case of any assistance you can call 139 or lodge complain in rail madad app.
  • GRP (Government Railway Police): Located on platform no. 2/3 for handling law and order issues.

9. Foot Overbridge (FOB)

  • Location: New FOB is located near to end of the platform towards Kozhikode end. There are no lifts and escalator on this Foot over bridge. Lift 4 nos. erection undergoing for all the platform for seamless movement of passengers.

Nearby Tourist Attractions and How to Reach Them

Shoranur Junction is surrounded by several scenic and cultural attractions. Here are a few nearby places to explore:

1. Kerala Kalamandalam (4 km)

  • Description: A cultural hub for traditional Kerala art forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.
  • How to Reach: Auto-rickshaws (₹50-₹80) or taxis (₹150-₹200).

2. Silent Valley National Park (58 km)

  • Description: A UNESCO-recognized reserve, home to diverse wildlife and lush greenery.
  • How to Reach: Taxis or rental vehicles (₹1,500-₹2,000 round trip).

3. Bharathapuzha River (3 km)

  • Description: A serene river perfect for picnics and photography.
  • How to Reach: Easily accessible by auto-rickshaws (₹30-₹50).

Historical Significance of Shoranur Junction

Shoranur Junction has a rich history as one of Kerala’s most prominent railway stations.

  • Colonial Beginnings: Established in the late 19th century, the station served as a critical link in the South Indian Railway network under British rule.
  • Strategic Location: Shoranur’s location connects the Malabar Coast to other regions of India, making it a hub for both passenger and goods trains.
  • Cultural Ties: The nearby Bharathapuzha River has inspired poets and artists for centuries, adding to the station’s cultural relevance.

Conclusion

The redevelopment of Shoranur Junction Railway Station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a testament to India’s commitment to improving travel infrastructure. With state-of-the-art amenities, green initiatives, and enhanced connectivity, Shoranur Junction is becoming a model station that seamlessly blends history with modernization.

Whether you’re passing through, heading to your next destination, or exploring nearby attractions, Shoranur Junction promises a hassle-free and enriching experience.

Feel free to comment below if you’d like to suggest additional information or updates!

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