New Train on Kozhikode–Palakkad Route Offers Much Needed Relief for Kerala Commuters

Kerala rail passengers have long asked for better service between Kozhikode and Palakkad. Responding to this, Indian Railways will launch a new daily express train on the route starting June 23, 2025.

Why This Matters

Fills Daytime Gap: Until now, there were no direct trains between Palakkad and Kozhikode from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm, causing inconvenience for commuters and travelers.

Passenger Relief: The new train will ease travel for hundreds of passengers who struggled with limited options on this busy route.

Key Details of the New Train

Start Date: June 23, 2025

Type: Special unreserved express train

Timings: Departs Kozhikode at 10:10 am, arrives Palakkad at 1:05 pm and Return journey starts at 1:50 pm from Palakkad.

Stops: Feroke, Parappanangadi, Tanur, Tirur, Kuttippuram, Pattambi, Shoranur, Ottapalam, and others

Duration: Fills the critical daytime service gap.

Coaches: 18 coaches, operated under four designated train numbers.

Service Period: Scheduled to run until September 15, 2025

Background and Future Prospects

The Palakkad Railway Division suggested extending the Mangaluru–Kozhikode train to Palakkad, noting it is financially viable and has no technical issues.

Southern Railway’s operations and commercial departments have approved the plan, and the final notification is awaiting the general manager’s approval.

Such special trains usually run for a limited time and may be extended or made permanent based on demand.

Local MPs from Palakkad, Malappuram, and Kozhikode have pushed for better rail services and raised the issue with railway officials.

What’s Next?

If the new service is well-received, it could become permanent, boosting rail connectivity in northern Kerala. Authorities are also looking into extending other services, like the Ernakulam–Shoranur MEMU up to Nilambur as a special evening train, showing a wider effort to meet commuter needs.

Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/travel/travel-news/2025/06/22/new-train-in-kozhikode-palakkad.html